The World Bank has called on the Nigerian government to significantly increase its investment in nutrition programs, emphasizing the economic benefits that could result. According to the institution, every dollar spent on nutrition could return up to $23, especially vital for addressing widespread malnutrition among vulnerable groups.
Nigeria currently faces alarming rates of child stunting and maternal anemia, both of which pose severe threats to the nation’s health and economic growth. The World Bank’s Investment Framework for Nutrition highlights the critical link between nutrition and economic development. Globally, nutrition investments are seen as drivers of growth, and in Nigeria, these returns could be even higher due to the scale of the problem.
Nigeria’s Nutrition Crisis: Stunting and Anemia
Over 11 million Nigerian children are stunted, representing about 35% of the child population, according to UNICEF. Stunting negatively impacts cognitive development, physical health, and future productivity. Additionally, more than 50% of pregnant women in Nigeria suffer from anemia, which increases the risks of premature births, low birth weights, and maternal death. This crisis further burdens the healthcare system.
Scaling Up Nutrition Efforts
The World Bank’s new Investment Framework for Nutrition 2024 outlines a global need for an additional $13 billion annually to fight malnutrition over the next decade, with Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, requiring $34 billion to meet its targets. Nigeria can benefit from these investments by scaling up affordable and effective interventions. These include improving maternal and child healthcare, promoting breastfeeding, and fortifying staple foods. The cost is minimal—around $17 per child and $13 per pregnant woman per year—especially when considering the long-term economic and health benefits.
Economic and Social Benefits for Nigeria
Investing in nutrition can lead to significant economic returns. Poor childhood nutrition leads to poor productivity in adulthood, reducing the overall capacity of the labor force. Addressing maternal anemia and child stunting will not only improve health outcomes but also reduce healthcare costs and enhance productivity, helping Nigeria achieve its economic and social development goals. These investments align with Nigeria’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2, which focuses on ending hunger and improving nutrition.
Financing and Policy Solutions
To fund these nutrition programs, Nigeria must adopt innovative strategies. The World Bank suggests repurposing agricultural subsidies to promote healthier diets, taxing unhealthy foods such as sugary drinks, and using climate funds to address food insecurity. Private sector partnerships and social bonds could also provide crucial financial support. Additionally, stricter regulations on food fortification, better healthcare services, and campaigns to promote dietary diversity will be essential in combating malnutrition.
With the 2025 Nutrition for Growth Summit approaching, Nigeria has the chance to make significant strides in its nutrition strategy. By addressing malnutrition, the country can improve health outcomes, boost productivity, and reduce the long-term economic costs associated with poor nutrition. Backed by the World Bank, these efforts could be transformative for Nigeria’s future.
