The Federal Government has raised alarm over Nigeria’s malnutrition crisis, which costs the country an estimated $1.5 billion annually in lost productivity and economic potential.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on August 23, 2025, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, highlighted the severe economic toll of malnutrition, driven by micronutrient deficiencies affecting millions of Nigerians.
Bagudu, addressing stakeholders at the Nutrition Society of Nigeria’s conference, emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling the crisis through the National Multisectoral Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition and the N-774 Initiative, which focuses on grassroots-level interventions.
“Malnutrition is not just a health issue; it’s an economic burden that stifles development. We are prioritizing nutrition in our National Development Plan to reverse this trend,” he said.
The minister noted that Nigeria ranks second globally in malnutrition, with 40% of children under five stunted and 8% suffering from wasting, according to the 2023-2024 National Demographic and Health Survey.
These conditions contribute to reduced workforce productivity and increased healthcare costs. The World Bank estimates that adults stunted as children earn 20% less, perpetuating poverty cycles.
The N-774 Initiative, endorsed by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, aims to strengthen local nutrition programs, while the government is pushing for increased budgetary allocations and the creation of nutrition departments across ministries.
Bagudu also called for private sector collaboration and innovations to enhance food fortification and dietary diversity.However, stakeholders, including the Civil Society Scaling-Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN), criticized persistent gaps in policy implementation and inadequate funding.
“While the government’s plans are commendable, poor coordination and reliance on donor support limit impact,” said CS-SUNN’s Executive Secretary, Beatrice Eluaka.
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