Akwa Ibom State is taking a significant step towards improving nutrition outcomes, as stakeholders gather for a workshop to adapt the National Social Behaviour Change (SBC) Strategy.
The workshop, held at ROSMOH Hotel in Uyo, aims to tailor the SBC Strategy to support community mobilization efforts of the USAID Advancing Nutrition in Nigeria Project in Akwa Ibom State.
The project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Helen Keller Intl, brings together key stakeholders to address malnutrition issues affecting vulnerable groups, including women, children under five, and those with special needs.
In a keynote address, Mrs. Grace Mogekwu, representative of the Director and Head of Nutrition department, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMOH&SW), emphasized the federal-level significance of the activity. She acknowledged the contributions of all partners, particularly Helen Keller Intl, for initiating the adaptation of the National Social Behaviour Change Strategy in Akwa Ibom State.
While reflecting on the 2023 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) data, Mrs. Mogekwu acknowledged the challenges but reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting nutrition across the lifecycle. “There is a need to promote nutrition across the life cycle, nutrition is a continuum of care,” she said.
She encouraged stakeholders to explore innovative approaches and utilize domestic and international resources effectively to ensure implementation success.
On her part, the State Nutrition Officer, Dr. Idongesit Bassey Umoh, welcomed participants to the workshop, describing it as one of the steps towards creating awareness on issues around nutrition in the state. She expressed optimism that discussions during the workshop would contribute towards improving the nutrition status of residents in the state, with the strategy serving as a guiding document.
“We cannot succeed alone; but as a team, we will succeed,” Dr. Umoh added, urging participants to ensure punctuality throughout the meeting.
Mr. Muyiwa Olowe, representing the Country Director and the Chief of Party of the Project, expressed appreciation to participants and partners for their support. He emphasized that the core values of Helen Keller Intl are collaboration and commitment to work, noting that their support affirms that the Advancing Nutrition in Nigeria project is on the right track in the state.
He urged Akwa Ibom State to own the project, as it would open opportunities for stakeholders in the state to contribute meaningfully towards improving nutrition outcomes. He expressed optimism that discussions during the workshop would help shape the strategic direction of the project, emphasizing the importance of ideas and insights.
