CS-SUNN, Others Advocate Improved Resource Allocation, Timely Release Of Funds

Stakeholders in health and Nutrition have called on the government at all levels to prioritize resource allocation and early release and utilization to support the Implementation of robust nutrition programs in the country.

The Chairman of Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition (CS-SUNN)’s board of trustees, Dr. Mbang Kooffreh-Ada made the call in Abuja, at a media briefing as part of activities to mark the 10th anniversary of CS-SUNN.

While calling on the private sector, Dr. Kooffreh-Ada said there was a need to invest and partner with CS-SUNN to support sustainable nutrition initiatives across Nigeria.

”We call on Civil Society Organisations to work together with CS-SUNN to advocate for inclusive and equitable nutrition policies and practices.”

Taking the media through key achievements of the organization in the ten years of its existence, the board Chairman said in 2015 CS-SUNN attained a significant milestone in its journey through the Multi-Partner Trust Fund for the 2014-2015 period.

” With invaluable support from partners such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, UNICEF, UNOPS, Scaling Up Nutrition Movement, ANRIN and others CS-SUNN has effectively influenced policy formulation, resource allocation, and implementation mechanism.”

The Director Nutrition Department, Federal Ministry of Health, Mrs. Ladi Bako-Aiyegbusi said the Ministry with the support of CS-SUNN has implemented advocacy strategies to boost nutritional services in the country.

Mrs Bako-Aiyegbusi commended CS-SUNN for intensifying advocacy for changes in nutrition-related policies and the promotion of positive attitudes and practices in the country.

The Executive Secretary of CS-SUNN, Mr. Sunday Okoronkwo who commended all partners for their support during the years called for more funding for nutrition in the country.

Mr Okoronkwo who stressed the need for the government at all levels to fund strategies, nutritional plans, and interventions, called for continued collaboration among partners to mobilize resources for improved nutrition outcomes in Nigeria.

Okoronkwo called on those in charge of the Primary Healthcare centers to provide Nutrition services and commodities, through consolidated funds.