UNICEF Raises Alarm Over Stolen Nutrition Supplements in Sokoto

 UNICEF Raises Alarm Over Stolen Nutrition Supplements in Sokoto

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has voiced serious concerns over the reported theft and illegal sale of nutrition supplements in Sokoto State. This issue was highlighted during a meeting on Wednesday, August 21, where officials gathered to discuss pressing issues in the region.

Micheal Juma, UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office for Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states, spoke at the quarterly policymakers’ meeting in Sokoto. Represented by Abraham Mahama, Juma revealed that the nutrition supplements, meant to help malnourished children, were being diverted by corrupt individuals within the system. These supplements, provided by donors and distributed to healthcare centers, have instead been found for sale in local markets.

Investigations by UNICEF uncovered shocking practices where some personnel were discovered hiding their theft by filling supplement cartons with stones and other materials.

Juma called on the community and healthcare stakeholders to be more vigilant and report any suspicious activities. He also urged the Sokoto State Government to take stronger action by appointing a Statistician General. This position, Juma suggested, would help improve the collection and management of important health data, which is crucial for tracking progress and addressing issues effectively.

UNICEF’s concerns come at a time when key health indicators in Sokoto, such as antenatal care, immunization rates, and healthcare infrastructure, are showing poor performance. Juma emphasized that without significant improvements in these areas, the health and well-being of children in the state remain at serious risk.