The Federal Government, in collaboration with key Ministries and Organizations, recently unveiled the findings of the 2021 National Food Consumption and Micronutrient Survey (NFCMS). The survey, aimed at assessing the dietary patterns and micronutrient status of various population groups in Nigeria, was conducted with the support of international and domestic partners.
The survey, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security (FMoAFS), the Federal Ministry of Budget & Economic Planning (FMoBEP), and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMoHSW), encompassed individuals ranging from infants to pregnant women, spanning all six geopolitical zones and 36 states of Nigeria.
Right to Left: Director, South West Region (Mrs. Talatu Ethan), Head, Food Group (Mr. Yunusa Mohammed) & Mrs. Uduak Udoso
Dignitaries, Honourable Ministers ,State Commissioners,Permanent Secretaries , and Directors from relevant Ministries , along with key stakeholders such as NAFDAC, SON, and the Food & Va Nutrition Society, attended the ceremonial launch. Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) was represented by Director, South West (Mrs. Talatu Ethan), Head, Food Group (Mr. Yunusa Mohammed), and a representative of SMEs Desk (Mrs. Uduak Udoso).
Dr. Chukwunonso Okeke, in his capacity as the Director General/Chief Executive of Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) articulated a comprehensive goodwill message, underscoring the Organization’s unwavering dedication to upholding standards for food safety and quality across Nigeria.
The Head, Food Group (Mr. Yunusa Mohammed) presenting the DG(SON) ‘s goodwill message at the event.
Dr. Okeke’s message was presented by Mr. Yunusa Mohammed. He reiterated that feedback from the survey will provide valuable insights into the nutritional status of our population, enabling SON to develop targeted interventions (Standards & Codes of Practices) that will help address micro nutrient deficiencies, promote healthy eating habits & ensure mandatory food vehicles are fortified with essential nutrients in compliance with the Nigerian Industrial Standards on food fortification.
Utilizing digital platforms such as the INNDEX24 Nigeria’s App, the survey collected data on socioeconomic and demographic information, dietary intake, anthropometry, and micronutrient status. Biomarkers including hemoglobin genotype, vitamin levels, malaria, and other health indicators were analyzed from blood, urine, and stool samples.
The NFCMS 2021 aims to provide evidence-based insights to guide government policies and programs related to food, nutrition, and agriculture in Nigeria. To mark the launch, a two-day event was held, featuring technical sessions and panel discussions on the survey process and outcomes.
The event marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to address nutritional challenges and promote public health awareness nationwide.
