Kano probes theft, sale of ₦500m free children’s malnutrition food

The Kano State Government has launched an 18-member committee to investigate the alleged diversion, theft, and unauthorized sale of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) worth over ₦500 million. This vital nutritional supply is designated for treating malnourished children across the state.

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The committee is mandated to investigate the alleged diversion of RUTF, establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify responsible individuals or groups, including possible collaborators among health workers, private traders and community members, as well as determine the quantity and estimated value of the missing products.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Yusuf, inaugurated the committee, tasking it with uncovering the facts surrounding the reported diversion of these life-saving commodities. The committee is mandated to establish the circumstances of the incident, identify all individuals or groups involved, including potential collaborators among health workers, private traders, and community members, and determine the quantity and estimated value of the missing products.

Dr. Yusuf expressed deep concern over the alleged diversion of nutritional supplements for personal gain, which denies vulnerable children critical treatment. He stressed that the government would not tolerate any actions that undermine public health interventions and assured that those found culpable would face the full force of the law. The committee is expected to recommend appropriate administrative, disciplinary, and corrective measures and submit its report within 14 days.

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It is deeply disturbing that some unpatriotic individuals allegedly diverted the nutritional supplements for personal gain by selling them in open markets, thereby denying malnourished children access to critical treatment.

The committee, chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Pharmacist Aminu Bashir, with Alhaji Naziru Tanko Kyaure as secretary, assured the state government of its diligence, transparency, and professionalism. The chairman pledged that no stone would be left unturned in uncovering the truth and safeguarding public resources intended for children's well-being.

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We want to assure the government that no stone will be left unturned in uncovering the truth and safeguarding public resources meant for the well-being of children.