Kwara, FG train nutrition specialists on multiple micronutrient supplementation

The Kwara Government says its two-day capacity-building training is to equip the participants with up-to-date knowledge and practical skills on Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS).

The Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Prof. Nusirat Elelu, said this at a training organised by the agency for Nutrition Focal Persons and Maternal, Child and Health (MCH) Coordinators from 16 local government areas of Kwara.

The programme, held on Monday in Ilorin, was in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health.

Elelu said that the programme was aimed at equipping participants with up-to-date knowledge and practical skills as trainers on Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS).

According to her, the focus is on improving maternal nutrition and strengthening antenatal care services across the state.

She reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration to strengthening primary healthcare delivery and improving maternal and child health outcomes.

Elelu noted that the state government’s consistent investments in the health sector, especially in nutrition and antenatal services, were already yielding tangible results.

She said this was reflected in the 62 per cent reduction in anaemia prevalence in pregnant women in the state.

The executive secretary emphasised that improving nutrition during pregnancy remained a crucial strategy for achieving healthier mothers and babies.

She urged the participants to take full advantage of the training, and cascade the knowledge gained to frontline health workers at the grassroots.

Elelu also asked them to ensure effective integration of MMS into routine antenatal services across all health facilities.

The State Nutrition Officer, Dr Gbenga Bankole, provided technical guidance on the integration of MMS into the existing maternal health framework in the state.

He pointed out that MMS could help fill nutritional gaps, support overall health and develop mothers and their children.

A facilitator from the Federal Ministry of Health, Mrs Beatrice Ali, explained the importance of nutrition during pregnancy, saying it lays the foundation for a healthy baby.

Ali enjoined mothers to take foods rich in calcium, iron, protein and Omega-3 fatty acids as well as stay hydrated always.