Faith Leaders Led improved Nutrition Revolution in Nigeria: A Collaborative Success Story

John OLLA – Communication Consultant, Oyo State ANRiN PIU

In a loud testament to the efficacy of collaboration and collective action, faith leaders all over Nigeria recently converge for a high-level discourse on nutrition on 23rd April 2024, marking a significant milestone in the nation's journey towards improved nutrition and well-being. The event was organized by the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) project, showcased the salient role of faith and traditional leaders in shaping sustainable pathways for enhancing nutrition practices in the country. The Discourse took place at the prestigious State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

ANRiN Project Management Unit (ANRiN PMU) and the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) Nigeria, in collaboration with other stakeholders, the dialogue brought together prominent voices from various faith communities. The discussions aimed at equipping faith leaders with the knowledge and tools to promote Maternal, Infant, and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCN) practices within their circle of influence, congregations and communities.

One of the remarkable achievements of the ANRiN project has been the capacity-building efforts targeting non-state actors, particularly faith leaders. Through the Community and Civil Society Involvement (CCSI) initiative, 1,016 influential faith leaders were selected and empowered to deliver MIYCN messages effectively including Oyo state as one of the ANRiN project state. These leaders have since become champions of nutrition advocacy, leveraging their platforms to disseminate important information on nutrition during various messages and special occasion; a practice which has almost become a norm in Oyo state and environ.

The faith leaders have delivered thousands of MIYCN messages which include sermons, naming ceremonies, weddings, and community gatherings. Just as the faith leaders Communication Consultants and Mobilization Officers at various ANRiN states have successfully reached millions of individuals, fostered greater awareness and understood nutrition practices through the deployment of Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) messages and materials on various platforms such as TVs, Radio, social media etc.

Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima graced the occasion to show is dedication towards improving nutrition in Nigeria. During the event he launched the 2 seminal materials (the ANRiN Sermon Guides and Faith Perspectives on Nutrition) which will serve as practical guide on how best to integrate nutrition messages in their sermons and engagements.

The launch of these manuals not only symbolizes a formal commitment to prioritizing nutrition within faith-based communities but also signifies a broader recognition of the critical role that faith leaders play in driving positive behavioral change. By harnessing the moral authority and influence vested in them, these leaders have emerged as catalysts for a nutrition revolution, transcending religious divides to promote the common good of all Nigerians.

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The publication of these manuals represents not only a formal commitment to prioritizing nutrition in faith communities, but also a broader recognition of the important role that faith leaders play in driving positive behavioral change.

Leveraging the religious authority and influence they command in their spaces; these leaders have and will contribute to accelerating nutrition results in Nigeria at large.

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As we celebrate the success of the dialogue, it is expedient to acknowledge the tireless efforts of all stakeholders involved, including ANRiN PMU, FMOH Nigeria, ANRiN PIUs, Faith leaders, and community members. Their collective dedication and commitment have laid the foundation for a healthier and more prosperous future for generations to come.

Sustaining and scaling up these efforts is as important as all the efforts of all the stakeholders in the past. Continuous investment in capacity-building initiatives, the dissemination of SBCC materials, and the engagement of faith leaders as advocates for nutrition will be essential to drive lasting change. By harnessing the influence of faith leaders and communities, Nigeria can realize its vision of a nation where there are cases of mal-nutrition is highly reduced and wasting and stunting in children are forgotten.

In conclusion, the success of the high-level dialogue with faith leaders on nutrition underscores the transformative potential of partnerships and the pivotal role of faith-based organizations in advancing the objectives of ANRiN Project. As we embark on this collective journey towards an accelerating nutrition result in Nigeria, let us draw inspiration from the dedication and resolve as demonstrated by all those stakeholders at the dialogue; we can create a brighter and healthier future for all in Nigeria.