By Stephen Simon
The Federal Executive Council has approved the National Nutrition Bill 2026 and a revised National Policy on Food and Nutrition as part of efforts to improve public health and tackle child malnutrition in Nigeria.
The Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Doris Uzoka-Anite, announced the approvals while briefing State House correspondents after Wednesday’s council meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.
She said the two documents were developed through consultations involving relevant ministries, the Office of the Vice President, the private sector, the National Assembly and development partners.
According to the minister, the proposed framework is designed to strengthen coordination among government institutions, improve the implementation of nutrition programmes and establish sustainable funding mechanisms.
The measures are also intended to promote transparency and accountability in nutrition interventions, with particular emphasis on reducing stunting among children.
Uzoka-Anite said the National Nutrition Bill 2026, which is sponsored by the executive, would be forwarded to the National Assembly for legislative consideration.
The approval marks a policy step towards establishing a stronger national framework for addressing nutritional challenges and improving the health and productivity of Nigerians.
However, the effectiveness of the initiative will depend on legislative action, adequate funding and the implementation of the proposed measures across federal and state institutions.
