The Federal Government, in partnership with the Lagos State Government and Conference 57, has launched the “Adopt a School for Snacks for Thought – PBAT FEEDS” initiative to provide nutritious breakfast snacks for primary school pupils and improve learning outcomes across public schools.
The programme, scheduled for launch by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in Lagos on June 30, is designed to ensure that no child is denied quality education because of hunger.
Speaking at a press conference, the National Programme Manager of the Renewed Hope National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, Dr. Aderemi Adebowale, said the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda by promoting child welfare, educational development and human capital growth.
She explained that the programme, supported by the federal, state and local governments, will mobilise corporate organisations, philanthropists, development partners, faith-based groups and communities to adopt schools and support pupils through a transparent funding model.
Adebowale also unveiled a digital dashboard that will enable sponsors to adopt schools, monitor implementation, track beneficiaries and measure the impact of their contributions in real time.
She said the initiative aims to reduce classroom hunger, improve concentration, increase school attendance and enhance academic performance, while also strengthening food and national security.
Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, urged stakeholders to support local farmers who will supply food items for the programme, adding that the pilot phase will benefit thousands of pupils across public primary schools.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, described the initiative as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future, saying it would improve access to nutritious meals and help reduce the number of out-of-school children.
Also, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Tolani Ali-Balogun, said access to nutritious meals is critical to improving academic performance and giving children a brighter future.
Project consultants Olufunke Adu and Jennifer Odufuwa of Tantacom Ltd. reaffirmed their commitment to the successful implementation of the programme, which will run from June 30 to July 3 across Lagos State’s three senatorial districts and 57 local councils.
