Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged lawmakers across the country to pass laws that will strengthen nutrition and food security, ensuring every Nigerian household has access to a healthy and balanced diet.
Speaking during a meeting with the National Legislative Network on Nutrition and Food Security, led by the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Chike Okafor, Shettima emphasized the need for urgent legislative action. He highlighted the government’s commitment through the Nutrition 774 Initiative, which seeks to improve coordination, financing, and accountability in providing essential nutrition support for mothers and children.
Shettima stressed that investing in nutrition is an investment in national security, long-term stability, and economic growth. He warned that when people struggle to eat, desperation inevitably follows, posing a risk to societal peace and development.
Okafor noted that his committee is working on reviewing and updating existing laws on nutrition and food security to align with global best practices. He stated that, following engagements with the Conference of Speakers of State Assemblies, all 36 state assemblies now have committees dedicated to nutrition and food security.
He further explained that key legislative reforms being considered include extending maternity leave from three to six months, regulating the sale of bulk vegetable oil to curb adulteration, and addressing the issue of multiple taxation on food products transported across different regions.
Shettima’s appeal shows that the administration’s recognised nutrition as a crucial element of national development, urging lawmakers to act swiftly in ensuring policies that promote food security for all Nigerians.
