In a deliberate efforts address diversion of nutrition commodities, the
Kaduna State Government has inaugurated a 17-member taskforce committee to track and prevent the diversion of nutrition commodities across the state.
It is aimed at strengthening accountability and ensuring that life-saving supplies reach vulnerable populations, particularly women and children.
During the inauguration on Wednesday, Commissioner, Planning and Budget Commission (PBC), Mukhtar Ahmed Monrovia, said the move was prompted by growing concerns that essential nutrition supplies were not getting to intended beneficiaries.
He noted that despite significant investments by the government and development partners in providing nutrition commodities, the impact of such interventions depends largely on transparency, proper utilisation and effective monitoring.
“The success of these efforts relies on accountability and the proper use of resources. We have observed gaps suggesting that some of these commodities are not getting to the last mile,” Monrovia said.
He explained that the taskforce has been mandated to strengthen tracking systems, ensure timely and accurate reporting, and monitor the distribution and use of nutrition commodities statewide.
Monrovia added that members were carefully selected based on competence and integrity, urging them to discharge their duties diligently.
“The expectations are high. This assignment is critical to improving service delivery, restoring public trust, and achieving better nutrition outcomes,” he said.
Chairman of the committee and Permanent Secretary in the PBC, Mukhtar Abdullahi, said the taskforce was constituted in response to persistent complaints about diversion of aid and nutrition supplies.
“We have reason to believe that these commodities are not reaching the last mile; the people they are meant for. This committee is to monitor, track, and ensure proper utilisation,” he said.
Abdullahi stressed that the commodities, mostly targeted at women and children, must be safeguarded to protect vulnerable groups.
“We will do everything possible to ensure that these essential supplies reach the intended beneficiaries. That is the essence of this committee,” he added.
Also speaking, Nutrition Specialist at UNICEF, Chinwe Ezeife, who represented the Chief of Kaduna Field Office, Dr. Gerida Birikula, commended the state government for the initiative.
She described the taskforce as a critical step toward strengthening transparency and accountability in the management of public health commodities.
“Misuse, diversion and inefficient management must be avoided. These commodities are meant to improve nutritional outcomes and save lives, especially among vulnerable populations,” she said.
Ezeife reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to providing technical support to ensure effective implementation, proper documentation and accountability.
The taskforce comprises representatives from key ministries, departments and agencies, as well as development partners, academia and civil society organisations, and is expected to provide coordinated oversight to enhance monitoring systems and improve nutrition outcomes in the state.
