The United States Agency for International Development has partnered with Nollywood icon Chioma Akpotha on a new film project aimed at addressing malnutrition in Nigeria.
The initiative unveiled in a statement released on Tuesday, features the film titled ‘Beta Food, Beta Life,’ which focuses on promoting healthier dietary habits among Nigerian families and supporting efforts to improve maternal and child nutrition.
The announcement was made during a private screening held at EbonyLife Cinema in Victoria Island, Lagos.
According to the agency, malnutrition remains a critical public health challenge in Nigeria, with over 3.6 million children suffering from severe acute malnutrition annually.
The condition is responsible for 50 per cent of deaths among children under five, underscoring the urgent need for public awareness and behavioral change.
The film project aims to highlight these alarming statistics and inspire positive shifts in nutrition practices across the country.
USAID’s Advancing Nutrition Activity, a key partner in the project, is a $35m initiative that works alongside the Nigerian government and organizations such as Helen Keller International.
The programme focuses on strengthening nutrition services and providing life-saving interventions, particularly during the crucial first 1,000 days of a child’s life.
“As USAID’s Goodwill Ambassador for Nutrition, Chioma Akpotha is leveraging her celebrity status and storytelling talent to raise awareness about malnutrition and encourage healthier practices among families,” the statement read.
Speaking at the event, Akpotha highlighted the importance of using creative platforms to inspire change, saying, “As a mother and storyteller, I understand the profound impact that nutrition has on the health and future of our children.
“Through Beta Food, Beta Life, I want to use the power of film to spark conversations and inspire families to make healthier choices, even in the face of challenges. Partnering with USAID allows me to amplify this message and reach communities across Nigeria with the tools and information they need to build brighter, healthier futures for their children.”
The USAID Health, Population, and Nutrition Specialist Foyeke Oyedokun stated, “The partnership with Chioma is a powerful example of how we can use creativity and collaboration to address complex challenges.
“Her ability to connect with audiences and share impactful stories brings a unique energy to our mission of improving nutrition in Nigeria. Together, we are working to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and lead a healthier life.”
