By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The Sokoto State government has praised FHI360 for its significant contribution to improving nutrition awareness and health outcomes in the state. This commendation was delivered during the Project Closeout ceremony held at the Sokoto Guest Inn, marking the conclusion of FHI360’s nutrition project.
During the event, the State Commissioner for Health, represented by Hajiya, expressed mixed emotions, noting that while the project’s closure was being marked, it should be a moment of reflection rather than celebration due to the importance of the initiative. She highlighted the reduction in malnutrition indices in Sokoto State, attributing the positive change to both the government’s efforts and the knowledge imparted by FHI360.
“Even before the arrival of FHI360, the Sokoto government had invested millions of naira through its healthcare delivery agencies to improve health development in the state,” the Commissioner said.
In recognition of FHI360’s contributions, the Health Commissioner’s representative presented traditional hand-woven bags to Mr. Victor Osatogbe, the State Coordinator of the FHI360 A&T Project. Mr. Osatogbe expressed his gratitude, acknowledging the government’s support and successful project implementation. He emphasized the need to sustain the strong partnership that has developed throughout the project’s tenure.
Hauwa Yarima, the State Treasurer for CS-SUNN, added that while the nutrition program may be concluding, activities aimed at supporting maternal health would continue.
Representatives from the Sokoto Health Care Delivery Agency, UNICEF, NAFDAC, and the Primary Health Care Board all echoed their appreciation for FHI360’s efforts. They noted that the knowledge imparted through the project, especially in rural areas where awareness is often limited, had been highly educational and beneficial for both urban and rural communities.
The ceremony underscored the lasting impact of the project on the state’s public health, particularly in the fight against malnutrition.
