By Usman Walin Gungura, Bauchi
In a collaborative move to combat malnutrition during the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, the Bauchi State Government, with the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) supported by the United States Government, recently launched a new initiative.
The initiative targets mothers and infants across all 20 Local Government areas of Bauchi, focusing on the critical window from conception to a child’s second birthday, a period experts described as vital for physical growth, brain development and long-term health.
Speaking at the inception meeting in Bauchi, Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Sani Mohammed Dambam, described the drive as critical to safeguarding child survival and development.
Dr. Dambam, while addressing deputy chairmen of the 20 LGAs, who also serve as chairmen of nutrition committees in their respective councils said “you are strong stakeholders for everything that affects your local government, and you have the full backing of your chairmen”.
According to him, malnutrition remains a major public health concern in Bauchi, contributing to high rates of stunting and under-five mortality, adding that the initiative aligns with broader efforts to reduce preventable child deaths.
Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, who was represented at the launching by Nutrition Specialist Philomena Irene said the programme reflects ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes for women and children.
“Today marks an important mission in Bauchi State’s journey towards improving maternal and child health,” Irene said.
She cited troubling health indicators, particularly anemia rates, as a key concern.
“These statistics are not what we are proud of, even as UNICEF. We are thankful that the government has provided an enabling environment for us to tackle these challenges,” she added.
The Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board, Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, earlier in his welcome address reaffirmed UNICEF’s motto: “Let every child survive”, stressing that maternal health and infant care during the first 1,000 days determine whether a child will thrive or face lifelong setbacks.
He called on pregnant women to attend antenatal care, warning that missing ANC visits raise risks of complications, preterm births, low birth weight, and maternal death.
“We want mothers to deliver in a healthcare facility. Delivery at home without skilled care puts both mother and baby at risk,” he said.
Dr. Rilwanu, emphasized exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, noting that breast milk provides sufficient water, nutrients and antibodies.
“Some people say babies need water. No. Breast milk alone is enough. Giving water exposes children to infections,” he stated.
