LIFESTYLE Culture

Kano Probes Diversion Of Malnutrition Treatment Supplies

by admin on | 2026-06-17 11:58:16

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Kano Probes Diversion Of Malnutrition Treatment Supplies

By Ahmad Sirajo Makama, Abuja

The Kano State Government has inaugurated a high-powered committee to investigate the alleged diversion, theft, and unauthorised sale of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) procured for the treatment of malnourished children across the state.

Speaking during the inauguration on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, said the committee was established to uncover the circumstances surrounding the reported diversion of the life-saving nutritional products and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.

According to the Commissioner, the committee has been tasked with investigating the alleged diversion of the RUTF consignment, determining how the incident occurred, identifying individuals or groups involved, including possible collaborators among health workers, traders, and community members, and establishing the quantity and estimated value of the missing products.

Dr Yusuf disclosed that the committee is also expected to recommend appropriate administrative, disciplinary, and corrective measures, as well as submit its findings to the government within 14 days.

He revealed that the state government spent more than N500 million on the procurement of the therapeutic food to support the treatment of children suffering from severe acute malnutrition.

He stressed that the products were intended solely for vulnerable children and not for commercial purposes.

Describing the allegations as deeply troubling, the commissioner said reports indicating that some individuals diverted the nutritional supplements for personal gain by selling them in open markets had deprived malnourished children of access to critical treatment.

“The government will not tolerate any act capable of undermining public health interventions and will ensure that all those involved face the full weight of the law,” he said.

The committee is chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Pharmacist Aminu Bashir, and comprises 18 members drawn from key stakeholder groups, including security agencies, the Emirate Council, and Ward Development Committees from Dawakin Tofa, Wudil, Rano, and Bichi zones.

The Director of Administration and General Services in the ministry, Naziru Tanko Kyaure, will serve as secretary.

Responding on behalf of the committee, Aminu Bashir assured the government and residents of Kano State that members would carry out the assignment with diligence, transparency, and professionalism.

He pledged that the committee would leave no stone unturned in uncovering the truth and safeguarding public resources meant for the health and well-being of children.