RismadarVoice Reporters, June 16, 2026
The Kano State Government has established an 18-member investigative committee to examine the alleged diversion, theft and unauthorised sale of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) intended for the treatment of malnourished children across the state.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Ministry of Health’s Public Relations Officer, Nabilusi Abubakar.
According to the statement, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Abubakar Yusuf, inaugurated the committee on behalf of Governor Abba Yusuf, charging members to thoroughly investigate the allegations and identify those responsible.
Speaking during the inauguration, the commissioner said the committee’s assignment is to determine the circumstances surrounding the reported diversion of the life-saving nutritional products and ensure that all individuals found culpable are held accountable.
He explained that the panel would investigate the scale of the alleged diversion, identify those involved, including any collaborators among healthcare workers, traders and community members, and assess the quantity and estimated value of the missing supplies.
The committee has also been directed to recommend appropriate administrative, disciplinary and corrective measures, as well as submit its findings within 14 days.
Dr Yusuf disclosed that the state government invested more than ₦500 million in procuring the therapeutic food products to support children suffering from severe acute malnutrition.
He described the allegations as troubling, noting that the commodities were specifically purchased for vulnerable children and were never intended for commercial sale.
According to him, reports that some individuals may have diverted the products and sold them in open markets for personal gain have raised serious concerns, as such actions could deprive affected children of critical medical nutrition.
The commissioner stressed that the government remains committed to protecting public health programmes and would ensure that anyone found involved in the alleged misconduct faces legal consequences.
The committee is chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Pharmacist Aminu Bashir, while the Director of Administration and General Services, Alhaji Naziru Tanko Kyaure, will serve as secretary.
Responding on behalf of the committee, Bashir assured the government that members would carry out their responsibilities with transparency, diligence and professionalism.
He pledged that the committee would conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the facts and safeguard public resources intended for the welfare of children across the state.
