At a quarterly policymakers’ meeting in Sokoto on Wednesday, Michael Juma, UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office for Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states, condemned the theft of nutrition supplements in several communities within Sokoto.
Juma revealed that cartons of nutrition supplements were found to be tampered with, filled with stones and other objects to conceal the theft.
He further alleged that these diverted supplements were then sold in local markets, depriving intended beneficiaries of critical nutrition aid, NAN reports.
Juma emphasized the need for heightened vigilance among community members and healthcare stakeholders to prevent the diversion of these critical supplies, ensuring they reach intended beneficiaries.
UNICEF, in partnership with the Sokoto government, convened the meeting to review activities, achievements, and challenges in addressing malnutrition.
UNICEF’s Michael Juma highlighted that nutrition supplements, donated to enhance the lives of malnourished children, were being diverted and sold to unauthorized individuals.
He revealed that investigations uncovered cartons of supplements filled with stones and other objects, disguising the theft. Juma emphasized that these supplements, intended for vulnerable children, were openly sold in markets, and urged action to prevent further exploitation.
Mr Juma also urged Sokoto government to join other states in appointing Sokoto’s statistician-general to fast-track data collection, prudence, preservation and dissemination in line with modern trends.
