The Kano State Government has launched an investigation into the alleged theft and illegal sale of nutritional food items valued at about ₦500 million, meant for free distribution to malnourished children.

Officials said the supplies were originally procured under government and donor-supported programmes designed to combat child malnutrition in vulnerable communities across the state.

Preliminary findings suggest that some of the items may have been diverted and sold in markets instead of reaching intended beneficiaries, prompting a formal probe into the supply chain.

Authorities described the alleged diversion as a serious breach of public trust, noting that it undermines ongoing efforts to address child health challenges in the state.

The government has pledged to identify all individuals and institutions involved in the alleged theft and ensure they are held accountable if found culpable.

Security agencies and relevant health officials have been tasked with tracking the movement of the supplies and strengthening monitoring systems to prevent future diversion.

Public health stakeholders have raised concerns over the impact of such incidents on nutrition programmes, warning that it could worsen child malnutrition rates if not urgently addressed.

The investigation is ongoing, with officials promising to release further updates as findings become clearer.