FIC Report (Abia State) – In a major step to strengthen federal-state collaboration on public health, the Federal Government’s Nutrition 774 (N-774) Initiative has officially commenced in Abia State, with the inauguration of the Abia State Council on Nutrition by Governor Alex Otti on Tuesday.
The Nutrition 774 Initiative, a flagship programme of the National Council on Nutrition, is aimed at improving nutritional outcomes across all 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria. Leading the advocacy visit to Abia, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health and Focal Person on Nutrition 774, Dr. Uju Rochas-Anwukah, commended the state’s readiness and commitment to implement the programme effectively.
Speaking during the inauguration in Umuahia, Dr. Rochas-Anwukah described malnutrition as a global menace and a silent driver of intergenerational poverty, contributing to 45% of child mortality in Nigeria. She stressed the need for multisectoral and community-based efforts to combat the challenge, noting that Nutrition 774 integrates health, food systems, education, social protection, and water sanitation.
“We sincerely commend Governor Otti for the transformational works ongoing in Abia. From Abuja, we hear the testimonies. Your Excellency, malnutrition knows no tribe, religion, or political affiliation. It requires unified action across all tiers of government,” she said.
Governor Otti, in his remarks, welcomed the initiative and affirmed the state’s support, revealing that Abia has consistently allocated 15% and 20% of its annual budget to health and education respectively over the past two years.
“Clearly, when you talk about nutrition, this initiative is a good one, and we welcome it. We have been investing heavily in healthcare and education because when people are well-fed, they’re less likely to fall ill,” the Governor noted. “However, we haven’t been deliberate in monitoring the numbers. This initiative has awakened us to be intentional in tracking nutrition indicators.”
He urged the newly inaugurated Council to drive coordination, policy implementation, and performance monitoring for long-term impact.
The Abia State Council on Nutrition, chaired by Governor Otti, has members drawn from key ministries and agencies including Budget and Planning, Health, Education, Agriculture, Finance, Women Affairs, and Information. It also includes the ALGON Chairman and the Chairman of the State House Committee on Food and Nutrition. The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and Planning, will serve as Secretary of the Council.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior government officials and stakeholders across relevant sectors.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC, FIC Umuahia, Abia State.
23rd July 2025.
