Kano Vows Tough Action Against Theft of Free Nutrition Commodities

The Kano State Government has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against the theft or illegal sale of nutrition commodities meant for women and children across the state.

Speaking at the closeout of the Alive & Thrive Maternal, Infant, and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCN) Project implemented by FHI360, Health Commissioner Abubakar Labaran warned that any health worker found diverting Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) or Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) would face immediate arrest and prosecution.

“We have received credible information that some of our own staff, in collaboration with outsiders, are diverting MMS and RUTF to be sold in markets and drug stores. These products are not for sale,” he said.

TIMES OF NIGERIA understands that the state has invested over ₦1 billion in procuring MMS across its 44 local government areas, as part of efforts to combat stunting, which currently affects 59.1 per cent of children under five.

Labaran commended FHI360’s four-year partnership, which he said had helped reduce child stunting from 58 per cent to 40 per cent and cut anaemia among women of reproductive age.

Over 8,000 health workers were trained, while more than one million women received MMS and 50,000 nutrition materials distributed.

“The future of our children depends on protecting these life-saving interventions,” the Kano commissioner stressed, urging both citizens and health workers to report any suspicious activity.