In the quest to expand access to nutrition services for the vulnerable and marginalized population in target communities in Keffi LGA of Nasarawa State and AMAC and Bwari Area Council in the FCT, DGI through the Christian Aid Nigeria funded project – ‘’ ‘Integrated Approach to Building Community Resilience in Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nasarawa State’ in collaboration with the Nasarawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency and the FCT Primary Healthcare Board facilitated a 2-day training of Nutrition Desk Officers on Community Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) and management of nutrition programme data which have been identified as major gaps affecting delivery of nutrition services.

Recognizing the critical roles of Nutrition Desk Officers in promoting treatment of referred cases of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) and severe acute malnutrition (SAM) from the community, the 2-day training aimed at building their capacity on effective community management of acute malnutrition and acquaint them with the nutrition programme data collection tools and modalities for data management.

The 2-day training was delivered through pre-test, PowerPoint presentations, practical sessions, role plays, and a post test. The training curriculum included the overview of CMAM in Nigeria; Community Mobilization; Measurement and Triage for Acute Malnutrition; Outpatient Therapeutic Program for uncomplicated SAM; Stabilization Care (SC) for Children (6-59 months) with SAM and Medical Complication; Nutritional Counselling Services and programmes addressing MAM; and Nutrition Programme Data Tools.

The identification of Acute Malnutrition through Middle Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) measurement and screening for bilateral pitting oedema in children 6- 59 months was demonstrated through a practical session. In addition, the facilitators underscored the importance of adhering to treatment guidelines and correct data entry and documentation for nutrition programme. Participants were also enlightened on how to fill nutrition programme data collection tools which include; admission card, ration card, referral form, outpatient treatment programme (OTP) tally sheet and monthly register, ready to use therapeutic food (RUTF) supply request form, growth monitoring and promotion register and the nutrition section of the monthly facility summary register.

The 2-day intensive training empowered Nutrition Desk Officers with requisite capacity towards ensuring improvement in demand for nutrition services by communities, quality of nutrition service delivery, accurate and timely data collection and management for decision making and ultimately better nutrition outcomes hence, fostering healthier communities.