By Uzairu Dauda Bunga:
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has praised Toro Local Government Area (LGA) for its significant strides in reducing malnutrition, promoting exclusive breastfeeding, and providing comprehensive maternal and child support.
During a field visit to assess the welfare of children and mothers in the area, UNICEF Nigeria’s Deputy Country Representative, Dr. Rownak Khan, commended the efforts of Toro’s community leaders and stakeholders. Speaking at the District Head’s palace, Dr. Khan highlighted the importance of early childhood development, emphasizing that children need holistic support; ranging from proper nutrition and hygiene to immunization and social interaction, within the first 1,000 days of life.
She stressed that investing in maternal and child health from pregnancy up to a child’s second birthday is one of the most impactful commitments a community can make. She urged traditional and community leaders, as well as caregivers, to support mothers with available resources to build a healthier society.
Dr. Khan attributed the progress in combating malnutrition in Toro to good sanitation, the availability of nutritious local foods, immunization efforts, and strong stakeholder engagement.
She assured UNICEF’s continued technical support in championing the cause of women and children in the LGA and beyond.
Encouraging the District Head of Toro to take the lead in mobilizing other traditional leaders, Dr. Khan expressed concern over global challenges affecting children, such as insecurity, war, and over-reliance on donor funding. She urged governments to take ownership of developmental projects rather than depending on external support, while reaffirming UNICEF’s commitment to providing technical assistance for sustainable progress.
On her part, the UNICEF Bauchi’s Chief of Field Office, Dr Nuzhat Rafique, lauded the efforts of Katukan Bauchi in reinforcing five key messages for caregivers: birth registration, immunization, good nutrition, sanitation, and quality education. She urged parents and community leaders to create an enabling environment that allows children to reach their full potential.
In his response, the District Head of Toro, Alhaji Yakubu Adamu, attributed the LGA’s success to a strong emphasis on women’s empowerment, noting that women play a crucial role in 70% of societal development. He emphasized the importance of including women in decision-making and supporting their well-being.
Alhaji Adamu highlighted malnutrition as a key challenge but noted that stakeholders in Toro tackled it proactively by mobilizing village and hamlet leaders to advocate for exclusive breastfeeding. He credited teamwork, effective supervision, and collective responsibility for the area’s progress in fighting malnutrition and eliminating open defecation.
He expressed gratitude to UNICEF for its unwavering commitment, emphasizing the strong working relationship between the organization and Toro authorities in securing a healthier future for the next generation.
