WFD: RSPHCMB Reaffirms Commitment To Promote Healthy Nutrition

By: Awajis Josiah-Chijindu 

The Executive Secretary of the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board, has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting healthy nutrition and reducing malnutrition through community sensitization and food demonstrations . 

Dr Adiele who was represented by his Executive Assistant Dr Justice Ohaka made the disclosure today during the commemoration of the World Food Day at the Model Primary Health Centre Ozuoba, in Obio/Akpor  LGA in the State.

Speaking on the theme of this year’s celebration, “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” Dr. Justice Ohaka emphasized the importance of partnership and community participation in achieving food security and improved nutrition outcomes in Rivers State. “The theme reminds us that better food and a better future cannot be achieved in isolation,” he said. 

“It takes everyone government, health workers, families, and development partners working hand in hand to ensure that every child and mother has access to nutritious food.”

He added that the Rivers State Government remains committed to building a healthier population through continuous nutrition education and collaboration at all levels.

Dr Ohaka noted that the event aligns with the Board’s earlier effort in September , government conducted a three-day training on Nutritional Assessment, Growth Monitoring, and Promotion for frontline health workers in the state.

“That training was designed to equip our health workers with the skills to detect malnutrition early, monitor child growth effectively, and promote healthy feeding practices among women and children,” he said. “Today’s World Food Day activities build on that foundation, reinforcing our collective commitment to better nutrition for a better future.”

Speaking in the occasion,  the Director Nutrition of the board, Mrs Carol Joseph said the World Food Day provides a platform to share practical lessons on nutrition and balanced diets, while encouraging households to adopt locally available, nutrient rich Foods.

“Today’s celebration reminds us that achieving food and nutrition security requires partnership with government, farmers, health workers, and citizens working hand in hand for a better future,” she said.

In their goodwill messages, representatives of WHO,, Institute of Dietitics of Nigeria,  Rivers State Chapter, Nigeria  Medical Officers of Health and other partners  commended the Rivers State Government for its proactive approach to tackling food and nutrition challenges, emphasizing that collaboration at all levels is crucial for achieving sustainable development and food security.

Government continues to demonstrate its resolve to strengthen food security and public health through nutrition education, policy commitment, and grassroots collaboration.