Ensuring the affordability and accessibility of nutritious food for all individuals is essential for improving food security in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Recognizing the urgency of this issue, IITA–CGIAR partnered with the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) to conduct the “National Food Consumption and Micronutrient Survey (NFCMS)” in 2021. This comprehensive, population-based study aimed to assess key nutritional challenges and inform effective policy interventions.
As the lead implementing agency, IITA along with other partners evaluated the micronutrient status, body measurements (anthropometry), and dietary intake of women of reproductive age (WRA) aged 15 to 49. The survey included pregnant and lactating women, children aged 6 to 59 months, and non-pregnant feminine adolescents aged 10 to 14. The goal was to identify the primary factors contributing to poor nutrition across these vulnerable groups.
The study was followed by a report highlighting persistent micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among women, with pregnant and breastfeeding women being the most affected. The findings revealed that low dietary diversity significantly contributes to inadequate micronutrient intake. Iron deficiency, exacerbated by inflammation and malaria, was identified as a major cause of anemia across all age groups.
Additionally, vitamin A deficiency was prevalent among pregnant women and WRA, while zinc deficiency was linked to anemia in both WRA and preschool children.
Dr Busie Maziya-Dixon, the survey principal investigator, IITA Food and Nutrition Scientist, and other members of the survey team emphasized the need to strengthen existing policy strategies like the “Agricultural sector food security and nutrition strategy.” These efforts are crucial for combating undernutrition and reducing micronutrient deficiency disorders.
To address these challenges, the survey team recommended creating an enabling environment to support the production and consumption of bio-fortified crops. These crops, including orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP), are rich in essential nutrients and can help bridge the dietary gaps. OFSP, high in beta-carotene, improves vitamin A intake and offers a sustainable, food-based solution to mitigate deficiencies and related health issues, such as diarrhea, in developing countries.
Promoting agricultural interventions and adopting bio-fortified crops could significantly enhance nutrition for children and WRA, leading to improved dietary diversity. These strategies advance food security and support healthier populations in Nigeria and across SSA.
Through these targeted efforts, the Federal Government of Nigeria aims to enhance nutrition policies and achieve greater food security, ultimately improving health outcomes and resilience across the region.
Contributed by Anita Akinyomade
Contributed by
Recent stories