Protecting Their Right to Live: EU Support Saves 40,000 Malnourished Children in Yobe
More than 40,000 children in Yobe State at risk of dying from malnutrition are receiving life-saving treatment thanks to European Union (EU) humanitarian funding, UNICEF has said.
The interventions, which include the provision of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) and therapeutic milk, target the critical lean season from May to September, when acute malnutrition often spikes among children. Joseph Senesie, UNICEF Malnutrition Manager, explained that these efforts ensure rapid recovery, allowing children to return to healthy lives.
“With steady supplies of RUTF and community-based screenings, we can detect and treat malnutrition early, saving countless young lives,” Senesie said during a media visit and virtual dialogue in Damaturu on Monday.
Dr Babagana Machina, Executive Secretary of Yobe State Primary Health Care Board, described malnutrition as a major public health threat worsened by food shortages, disease outbreaks, and conflict-driven displacement. He noted that 306 health facilities now offer Outpatient Therapeutic Programme (OTP) services statewide.
Hajiya Hadiza Adamu, State Nutrition Officer, said the state aims to reduce malnutrition from the current 10.9 per cent to a Phase Two classification by the end of 2026. She warned that ongoing conflict, flooding, and food insecurity continue to threaten children’s survival, underscoring the need for sustained nutrition interventions.
The collaboration between the EU, UNICEF, the government, and local partners highlights a strong commitment to protecting children’s right to survival and healthy development in Yobe State.
