Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State has flagged off a community-based nutrition programme aimed at tackling malnutrition among children aged 0–5 years.

The initiative was disclosed on Tuesday in Lagos by the Executive Chairman of the council, Mr Johnson Akinpelu, in a statement made available to journalists.

Akinpelu described the programme as a timely and strategic intervention designed to address one of the most critical public health challenges affecting children in the community.

According to him, the programme is being implemented through a partnership between the Health Emergency Initiative and the Nigerian Exchange Group, combining public and private sector efforts to improve child nutrition and overall well-being.

He explained that the intervention would focus primarily on vulnerable children and their caregivers within District I of the local government area, where cases of child malnutrition have been identified as a growing concern.

“About 120 children and their caregivers are expected to benefit directly from this programme,” Akinpelu said.

He noted that malnutrition remains a major threat to child survival, growth, and cognitive development, adding that its effects could extend into adulthood if not addressed early.

“Malnutrition affects not only the physical development of children but also their mental capacity and future productivity. If left unaddressed, it places a long-term burden on families, communities, and the healthcare system,” he said.

The chairman explained that the programme includes key components such as nutritional screening to identify at-risk children, provision of nutrition support, caregiver education on proper feeding practices, and referrals to health facilities where further medical attention is required.

He added that caregivers would also be educated on infant and young child feeding practices, hygiene, and basic nutrition knowledge to ensure sustained impact beyond the duration of the programme.

Akinpelu said the initiative reflects the council’s commitment to strengthening primary healthcare delivery and improving child health outcomes at the grassroots level.

“This programme represents a proactive approach to early identification, prevention, and effective management of malnutrition in our communities. It is part of our broader efforts to ensure that every child in Alimosho has a healthy start to life,” he said.

He further assured residents that the local government would continue to support programmes and partnerships that promote the health and well-being of children and families across the council area.