With support from the Government of Ireland, Alive & Thrive is working to tackle malnutrition and reach global nutrition targets in the Mekong Sub-Region with a priority on the furthest behind in each context.

Breastfeeding is a powerful weapon in the fight to ensure every child has the best possible start to life, but mothers need access to accurate information and timely support from their family and community; the healthcare system; and their employers.

Nigeria has recently made progress toward strengthening policies and programs in support of maternal, infant and young child nutrition (MIYCN). However, progress has been limited to specific states—and creating strong plans for implementation of new policies remains a challenge.

This series of country briefs report on key maternal and child nutrition indicators, progress towards reaching the World Health Assembly global nutrition targets, and current implementation of recommended policies and plans.

The overall nutritional status of children in Nigeria has slightly improved over the last decade; nevertheless, the country still has among the world’s highest child mortality rates and some of the lowest rates of recommended IYCF practices.