Nigeria Fights Malnutrition & Low Immunization with Cooking Demos at Clinics
A simple but powerful innovation is transforming health clinics in southwest Nigeria. On routine immunization days, the smell of cooking now fills the air as health workers conduct live culinary demonstrations for waiting mothers. This creative policy directly tackles two intertwined crises: severe child malnutrition and dangerously low vaccination rates.
The strategy is seeing remarkable success. In some clinics, attendance on immunization days has doubled or even tripled since the cooking demos began. Mothers are drawn by the practical lessons in preparing affordable, nutritious meals using local ingredients like bean cakes, vegetables, and crayfish.
Addressing a Twin Crisis
The need is urgent. Nigeria has the world’s second-highest rate of child stunting due to malnutrition, affecting 32% of children under five. At the same time, immunization coverage is low—only 67% of children complete their basic DPT vaccine series.
These issues are deeply connected. Malnutrition weakens a child’s immune system, making them more vulnerable to the very diseases vaccines prevent. The cooking demos, supported by groups like UNICEF and Gavi, aim to solve both problems simultaneously.
Mothers Embrace the Change
For mothers like Agnes Adebayo, the approach is a revelation. “It not only encouraged me to bring my daughter for immunization, it gave me knowledge,” she said. The lessons focus on low-cost, nutrient-rich meals suitable for the critical weaning period.
Health worker Jumoke Obadan has witnessed the shift firsthand. “Before… we struggled to increase immunization numbers. Some women were lackadaisical about it. Now, things have changed,” she explained. The demos are coupled with counseling on exclusive breastfeeding, creating a full package of preventive care.
Community Support and a Model for the Future
The initiative has earned broad support, including from traditional leaders like High Chief Olusanya Fatoki, who praised the government’s effort. Health officials are optimistic. Dr. Kikelomo Adejumo described it as “killing two birds with one stone” and believes that with more funding, the results could be spectacular.
By making health visits more valuable and practical, this Nigerian policy offers a deliciously simple model: sometimes, the best medicine is served on a plate.
