The Nigerian government is concerned about the economic impact of malnutrition, costing the country $1.5 billion a year in lost productivity and human capital development.
Minister for Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, has said that loses $1.5bn of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) every year due to micronutrient deficiencies.
According to a statement issued by the ministry on Wednesday, the Minister made this disclosure on Tuesday, while speaking at the 53rd Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, (NSN), in Abuja.
Bagudu urged experts in nutrition in the country to research and develop innovations that will boost nutrition and contribute towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensure Universal Health Coverage, and bring about significant positive changes in the nutrition sector in Nigeria.
He also said that the government is strengthening nutrition leadership and workforce capacity, paving the way for improved health and development in Nigeria.
The NSN President, Prof Wasiu Afolabi, commended the Federal Government for granting a Presidential directive for creating a Nutrition Department in line with Ministries and Agencies of Government and ensuring the nutrition budget and appropriation in 2023.
