The Health and Lifestyle Awareness Development Initiative (HLADI) proudly participated in the Multiple Micronutrients Supplementation Landscape Analysis (MMS-LAN) training organized by the Nutrition Department of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. The five-day training took place from August 12–16, 2024, at Hawthorn Suites, Area 11, Abuja, and brought together key stakeholders working to address micronutrient deficiencies across Nigeria.
Addressing Micronutrient Deficiencies in Nigeria
The MMS-LAN training served as a highly interactive platform for addressing one of Nigeria’s most pressing public health challenges: micronutrient deficiencies. Sessions focused extensively on the burden of Iron Deficiency Anemia, the most widespread micronutrient deficiency in the country, affecting;
- Children
- Adolescent girls
- Women of reproductive age (15–49 years)
Participants received both theoretical and practical training on micronutrient supplementation, program implementation, and strategies to reduce deficiency rates among vulnerable groups.
HLADI was represented by a team of trained research assistants who engaged deeply in discussions, technical sessions, and field exercises—further strengthening the organization’s capacity in nutrition assessment and intervention.
HLADI’s Role as Research Assistants
HLADI’s research assistants played an active and important role throughout the training. Their responsibilities included:
1. Conducting Focus Group Discussions (FGDs)
Engaging pregnant women, their partners, and healthcare workers across rural and urban areas in all six geopolitical zones to gather insights on:
- Community awareness of micronutrient supplements
- Attitudes toward supplementation
- Barriers and opportunities for improved uptake
2. Data Collection
Collecting quantitative and qualitative data to support the national landscape analysis on micronutrient needs and program performance.
3. Data Analysis
Analyzing collected data to identify gaps, trends, and opportunities for improving supplementation programs, especially for vulnerable populations.
4. Documentation
Keeping detailed records of training activities, FGDs, data collection processes, and key findings to support program reporting and future interventions.
Site Visits: Hands-On Learning in Health Facilities
As part of the MMS-LAN experience, HLADI’s team visited three Primary Health Centers in Abuja:
1. Karo Primary Health Center
2. Kuchigoro Primary Health Center
3. Lugbe Primary Health Center
These site visits provided practical exposure to micronutrient supplementation services. The team:
- Assessed the benefits and potential risks of supplementation
- Observed and practiced effective counseling techniques for clients
- Identified opportunities to strengthen micronutrient delivery within routine health services
- Gained hands-on insight into how health workers implement supplementation at facility level
Commitment to Healthier Futures
Participation in the MMS-LAN training strengthened HLADI’s capacity to support Nigeria’s nutrition agenda. The knowledge and experience gained will:
- Improve HLADI’s ability to advocate for effective micronutrient programs
- Enhance program planning, monitoring, and implementation
- Contribute to reducing micronutrient deficiencies among vulnerable communities
- Support national efforts to address anemia and improve maternal and child health
HLADI remains committed to leveraging these insights to promote healthier lifestyles, stronger nutrition systems, and better public health outcomes across Nigeria.
Together with government partners, development agencies, and community stakeholders, HLADI continues to push for a better nourished, healthier Nigeria.