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A Qualitative Exploratory Study of the Political Commitment for Nutrition Programming: A Case Study of Anambra and Kebbi States of Nigeria

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  • Oluchi Ezekannagha

    (Division of Human Nutrition, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Tygerberg Campus, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
    International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Ibadan 200001, Nigeria
    CGIAR System Organization, c/o Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT, 00153 Rome, Italy)

  • Scott Drimie

    (Division of Human Nutrition, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Tygerberg Campus, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 8000, South Africa)

  • Dieter Von Fintel

    (Department of Economics, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa)

  • Busie Maziya-Dixon

    (International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Ibadan 200001, Nigeria)

  • Xikombiso Mbhenyane

    (Division of Human Nutrition, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Tygerberg Campus, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 8000, South Africa)

Abstract

In Nigeria, varying levels of malnutrition across states present a critical challenge to public health, demanding tailored policy responses. This paper delves into the specific issues and dynamics influencing nutrition programs in the country. Advocating for nutrition-sensitive actions requires analyzing context-specific political commitment. This article presents a case study on two Nigerian states with varying malnutrition profiles to explore the political economy of nutrition. The study used stakeholder analysis, in-depth interviews, and semi-structured interviews through workshops, incorporating the Political Commitment Rapid Assessment Tool. The objective was to measure political commitment, the window of opportunity for action, and stakeholder analysis. The results showed that despite having a significant child malnutrition problem, Kebbi State received a high political commitment to nutrition, with proportions ranging from 0.67 to 1 in each of the six domains measured. On the other hand, Anambra State, where malnutrition was less severe, had varying commitment levels. Institutional commitment was marginally high (0.67), expressed commitment was high (0.71), and budgetary commitment was lower at 0.33. Kebbi had better support for programs dependent on foreign donors than Anambra. Both states need to use media to increase awareness about nutrition issues. When the nutrition situation is severe, foreign donors’ influence grows. In conclusion, there are opportunities for strategic framing and advocacy of the nutrition profile of the states. Local state media can be effective, and institutional coordination committees that include various sectors already facilitate commitment to nutrition actions. However, individual, uncoordinated sectoral action can counterbalance the benefits of these committees. Further possibilities to generate political commitment for nutrition in the states are available. This study not only offers insights into the effectiveness of political strategies in addressing malnutrition but also lays the groundwork for future research and provides actionable recommendations for government policymaking.

Suggested Citation

  • Oluchi Ezekannagha & Scott Drimie & Dieter Von Fintel & Busie Maziya-Dixon & Xikombiso Mbhenyane, 2024. "A Qualitative Exploratory Study of the Political Commitment for Nutrition Programming: A Case Study of Anambra and Kebbi States of Nigeria," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 21(2), pages 1-17, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:21:y:2024:i:2:p:175-:d:1332436
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jeremy Shiffman & Stephanie Smith, 2007. "Generation of Political Priority for Global Health Initiatives: A Framework and Case Study of Maternal Mortality," Working Papers 129, Center for Global Development.
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