Microgrant: GAIN recognizes 16 businesses, supports them with N3mn each

By Ochiaka Ugwu

Global Initiative for Improved Nutrition (gain) has recognized 16 businesses that demonstrated outstanding dedication to the cause of nutrition and passed a rigorous multilayered evaluation to demonstrate their commitment, expertise in furthering the worthy mission.
Speaking during the Microgrant Funding for Nutritious Business award ceremony organized by gain in partnership with Green Innovation Centre (GIC) in Abuja Tuesday, gain’s Country Director, Michael Ojo said Ihe microgrant funding of Three Million Naira each (48 million in total) is not just a financial award, but a testament to the belief they placed in these entrepreneurs.
His words, “It’s an investment in the future of food security and nutrition in Nigeria. With this funding, these businesses are poised to scale up operations, improve food safety standards, and, most importantly, increase the availability, accessibility and consumption of nutritious foods across the country.
“This funding of 48 million naira directly contributes to food security by ensuring that more households have access to affordable, nutritious food options, essential for healthy living and Sustainable development.
“As we move forward, let this ceremony not just be a celebration of what has been achieved but also a call to action for all of us. Let us continue to innovate, support, and advocate for nutritional improvement across all layers of our society. Our work is far from done, and it will take the concerted effort of each of us to achieve the Nigeria we dream of – a nation where every meal is a step towards better health” he stated.
While congratulating the awardees, Ojo expressed gratitude to their partners, stakeholders and the governments of Kaduna, Benue, Nasarawa, and Oyo states for their unwavering commitment to improving nutrition within their states.
Benue State Commissioner of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Moses Ogbaji who represented the state while thanking Gain for the initiative requested for the inclusion of African Yam Bean in their project.
Oyo State Commissioner of Agriculture and Rural Development, Bar. Olasunkanmi Olaleye thanked Gain for reaching about 14 people with equipment and posited the need for collective effort in upscaling nutrition and improving food production.
Kaduna State Commissioner of Agriculture, Hon Murtala Mohammed Dabo represented by Mr. Shehu Dalhat commended Gain for the award and stated that the state budgeted N24 billion for Agriculture due to the importance placed on food and nutrition.