The Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN), a World Bank-funded program, has achieved a remarkable milestone in Kano State.
According to Dr. Umar Yahuza, ANRiN project coordinator in Kano, the program has provided essential nutrition services to over 3.3 million individuals in the state.
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Specifically, ANRiN has supplied Multiple Micro Supplementations (MMS) to 1.5 million pregnant women and Micronutrient Powder (MNP) to 1.8 million children across 484 wards in 44 local government areas.
This initiative aims to reduce malnutrition, improve school performance, and decrease maternal and child mortality.
The program has also embarked on a massive training of healthcare personnel, with 498 already trained and another 480 undergoing training.
This comprehensive approach addresses the entire healthcare system, ensuring that all stakeholders are equipped to provide quality nutrition services.
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Dr. Yahuza emphasized that Nigeria’s current challenges, including insecurity, economic downturn, and global phenomena, have exacerbated malnutrition.
In response, ANRiN 2.0 integrates social support for vulnerable groups, empowers individuals with modern farming techniques, and collaborates with the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
According to a 2023 survey, Nigerian malnutrition has increased to 40%, while Kano State has recorded a 9% reduction in malnutrition.
Dr. Yahuza urged pregnant women to seek medical attention from healthcare facilities to ensure their health and that of their children.
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Healthcare professionals Nusaiba Labaran Datti and Usman Balarabe Usman praised the training as timely and productive, noting that it has refreshed their approach to patient care.
They expressed gratitude to the project coordinator for his commitment to their training and dedication to improving public health.