🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Sokoto and UNICEF launch N200m nutrition initiative, officials warn against diversion
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Sokoto State Government and UNICEF have reinforced their partnership on child health with a combined N200m intervention to combat severe malnutrition. This initiative includes N100m from the state government, matched by UNICEF, for the Child Nutrition Fund. UNICEF’s Deputy Country Representative, Dr Rownak Khan, commended Sokoto's commitment, noting that over 260,000 children in the state suffer from severe acute malnutrition. She emphasized a holistic approach to child health, integrating nutrition, immunization, and maternal care, and highlighted the state's 100 percent reconciliation of nutrition commodities. UNICEF Sokoto Field Office Head, Michael Juma, stated the intervention will broaden access to Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food and other vital supplies, urging a focus on preventive nutrition and dietary diversity to prevent malnutrition from undermining education. The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Abubakar Faruk, affirmed Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s dedication to addressing hunger and child mortality, citing surveys indicating up to 85 percent of children in the state are affected by malnutrition. He warned against the diversion of supplies, detailing a multi-level accountability framework to ensure transparent distribution to verified beneficiaries, including malnourished children and vulnerable pregnant women. The Child Nutrition Fund, supported by partners like the Gates Foundation and FCDO, aims to scale domestic investment and ensure shared accountability, with
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
The African Democratic Congress ADC in Kebbi State claims that the investigation and prosecution of its governorship candidate and former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, are politically motivated. In a statement signed by State Chairman Sufiyanu Bala and ADC Elders Forum Chairman Alhaji Shehu Sambawa, the party asserted it would not be intimidated ahead of the 2027 general elections. While stating it does not oppose lawful investigations, the ADC accused the ruling All Progressives Congress APC of using state institutions to weaken opposition parties. The party described the process against Malami, who served as Attorney-General from 2015 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, as orchestrated to achieve a predetermined goal. The ADC highlighted that Malami was arrested for a bailable offense and his properties were allegedly searched in his absence. The party also argued that allegations regarding Malami’s assets failed to consider his background before his appointment. The ADC reaffirmed its support for Malami, stating its members in Kebbi State remain united behind him and are committed to unseating the APC in the 2027 elections, despite what it calls political persecution and intimidation. Anti-graft agencies, however, maintain that investigations and prosecutions are evidence-based and lawful, regardless of political affiliation.
Anambra State Governor Professor Chukwuma Soludo unveiled a monumental statue dedicated to the late literary icon Professor Chinua Achebe at Nwasike Roundabout, Ogidi. Governor Soludo challenged the youth to reject cultism and materialism, instead embracing the intellectual and moral integrity championed by Achebe. He stated that the monument serves as a roadmap for the future and a permanent public conscience for the state, encouraging Nigerian youth to derive inspiration and live by Achebe's values. The Governor lamented the rise of cult-related elements in Idemili North LGA, historically Achebe's home, suggesting Achebe would be saddened by such developments. He emphasized that those involved in cults or displaying obscene wealth are insulting Achebe's memory. Governor Soludo also highlighted that the Anambra International Passenger and Cargo Airport was previously renamed in Achebe's honor. Professor Ike Achebe, representing the Achebe family, expressed appreciation for the state's dedication. The event included tributes from the Chairman of Idemili North, Stanley Nkwoka, and the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, both stressing the importance of preserving Achebe’s intellectual trajectory for future generations.
Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar has called on her colleagues in the film industry to foster love, empathy, compassion, and unity, stating that the absence of these values exacerbated her 13-year health and personal struggles. Speaking at a Holy Ghost revival event in Lagos, Abubakar criticized what she described as greed, distrust, and a lack of genuine care among Nigerian film practitioners. She recounted her experiences publicly for Nigerians and the world to understand her suffering, describing her return to public life as a "miracle" and "second chance" attributed to her faith in God. Abubakar alleged that some individuals worked to destroy her reputation and career, with others celebrating false reports of her death. She urged Nollywood actors and filmmakers to support each other during difficult times. Apostle Queen Belemzy, also speaking at the event, detailed how she became involved in Abubakar's recovery, which began with virtual prayer sessions after Abubakar sought her help. Belemzy stated that Abubakar's health improved, and she provided financial support. Abubakar's health challenges began in 2017 after fibroid surgery, leading to prolonged complications including a brain tumor, heart-related problems, high blood pressure, spleen complications, insomnia, anxiety, and recurrent bleeding. The illness forced her away from acting and caused financial hardship, prompting public appeals for medical assistance. In 2026, she announced her recovery, attributing her heal