Adedokun Waliyu 
The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has launched a four-year Multi-Sectoral Strategic Plan of Action on Food and Nutrition (OYSMPFAN) to address malnutrition and hunger among children and women in the state.
The initiative was unveiled in Ibadan by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Prof. Misbaudeen Babatunde, who was represented by the Executive Assistant on Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Alhaji Gafar Bello.
Speaking at the launch, Babatunde emphasized the government’s commitment to eradicating malnutrition, noting that the new policy would serve as a framework for addressing food and nutrition security challenges at all levels—household, community, local government, and state. He also acknowledged UNICEF’s significant role in supporting the welfare of children, women, and vulnerable groups in Oyo State.
To further demonstrate its commitment, the Oyo State Government has allocated ₦250 million as its counterpart fund for the World Bank-supported Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRIN) project, which began in March 2020. Additionally, ₦100 million has been contributed to the Basic Health Care Provision Fund project.
“In total, the Oyo State Government has invested ₦350 million as a counterpart contribution to the Nutrition Fund to combat malnutrition in the state,” Babatunde stated.
He noted that the strategic plan aligns with the policies of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration and is expected to serve as a roadmap for improving nutrition outcomes. Babatunde expressed concern over the current high rate of stunted growth among children but remained optimistic that proper implementation of the policy would significantly reduce malnutrition levels.
“The present administration has been dedicated to fostering economic growth, job creation, and wealth generation while ensuring a supportive environment for women and children in the state,” he added.
Babatunde also highlighted the development of a 20-year home-grown Development Plan, known as Agenda 2040, which incorporates diverse perspectives from both state and non-state actors to shape the future of Oyo State.
Reaffirming the government’s dedication to child welfare, he assured UNICEF that Oyo State remains committed to implementing the Child Rights Law 2006, which focuses on protection, development, survival, and participation of children.
UNICEF representative Mr. Boluwatife Ogunjimi revealed that Oyo State’s stunted growth rate currently stands at 34.5%, with malnutrition being a major factor contributing to child mortality. He stressed the importance of proper nutrition in reducing child deaths.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Tunde Ayanleke, pledged that all activities outlined in the strategic plan would be effectively executed to ensure the optimal use of resources. He commended UNICEF’s contributions across various sectors in the state and assured that the partnership would yield positive outcomes for nutrition and overall child well-being.
