Yobe State Governor, Hon. (Dr.) Mai Mala Buni, has inaugurated the State Council on the Nutrition 774 Initiative aimed at improving nutrition and public health across the state.
The inauguration took place when the governor received Mrs. Uju Rochas-Anwukah, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, who was in the state on an advocacy visit for the Nutrition 774 programme.
Governor Buni said Yobe State remains fully aligned with the objectives of the national initiative, describing it as a key driver for improving public health and achieving sustainable development.
“It is my pleasure to share that our administration has launched a massive agricultural empowerment programme to boost food security, nutrition, and economic growth,” he said.
According to him, the programme has encouraged mass participation in agriculture, making collaboration with the Nutrition 774 initiative smooth and effective, and aligning both the state and federal governments’ efforts toward better nutrition outcomes.
The governor explained that Yobe State has integrated nutrition-sensitive interventions into its health, education, and social protection programmes, as well as skill acquisition schemes under the Ministry of Women Affairs, to promote a healthier population.
He noted that the Nutrition 774 Initiative represents “a bold and transformative vision” where every local government area becomes a hub for community-driven nutrition action, emphasizing coordination, collaboration, and grassroots participation.
Buni further highlighted partnerships with development agencies such as UNICEF, UNFPA, the World Food Programme, the World Bank, and UNDP, which have expanded community-based nutrition services and strengthened maternal and child health systems.
“We are also investing in data systems and local capacity to enhance planning, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making in nutrition programming,” he said.
The governor called for a holistic approach involving traditional and religious leaders, civil society, the private sector, and local communities to ensure no child in Yobe suffers the consequences of malnutrition.
“Our collective goal is to build a generation that is healthy, strong, and productive — one that will contribute meaningfully to our state and nation’s future,” he added.
Earlier, Mrs. Rochas-Anwukah commended Governor Buni for his achievements in agriculture and healthcare, describing him as “a great silent achiever” whose efforts have laid a strong foundation for nutrition development in the state.
She expressed optimism that the Nutrition 774 initiative would succeed in Yobe, leading to a healthier population and greater socio-economic growth.
