The senior special assistant to the president on school feeding, Dr. Yetunde Adeniji has called for improved school feeding programme, noting that it will help in the cognitive development and academic performance of Nigerian children.
Speaking at a two-day event with the theme, “Encouraging State-Driven Implementation and Best Practices for School Feeding Towards Local Agricultural Value Chain, Community Engagement, and Economic Development,” she emphasized the crucial link between nutrition, education, and economic growth.
The event focused on the domestication of the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) continental school feeding guidelines for Nigerian state officials.
Dr. Adeniji emphasized the significant impact of the school feeding program on the cognitive development and academic performance of Nigerian children.
She said, “This programme is not simply about providing meals; it’s about nurturing the minds of tomorrow’s leaders.”
Dr. Adeniji called for strong leadership and collaboration between federal and state governments, stressing that the success of the programme hinges on the dedication of state focal persons and program managers.
She lauded the role of these key individuals as the backbone of the initiative, acting as liaisons between the government, schools, and communities to ensure effective implementation.
The event also recognized the invaluable support of AUDA-NEPAD, whose partnership has been instrumental in the program’s progress and Adeniji expressed gratitude for their firm commitment to Nigeria’s development and urged continued collaboration to build a brighter future for Nigerian children.
