Addressing micronutrient deficiencies: Insights from the national food survey

Ensuring the affordability and accessibility of nutritious food for all individuals is essential for improving food security in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Recognizing the urgency of this issue, IITA–CGIAR partnered with the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) to conduct the “National Food Consumption and Micronutrient Survey (NFCMS)” in 2021. This comprehensive, population-based study aimed to assess key nutritional challenges and inform effective policy interventions. 

As the lead implementing agency, IITA along with other partners evaluated the micronutrient status, body measurements (anthropometry), and dietary intake of women of reproductive age (WRA) aged 15 to 49. The survey included pregnant and lactating women, children aged 6 to 59 months, and non-pregnant feminine adolescents aged 10 to 14. The goal was to identify the primary factors contributing to poor nutrition across these vulnerable groups. 

The study was followed by a report highlighting persistent micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among women, with pregnant and breastfeeding women being the most affected. The findings revealed that low dietary diversity significantly contributes to inadequate micronutrient intake. Iron deficiency, exacerbated by inflammation and malaria, was identified as a major cause of anemia across all age groups.  

Read more