Paulina Adeniji, a professor of Human Nutrition and Hospitality at Redeemer’s University in Ede, Osun State, has voiced concerns about Nigeria’s dairy industry.
In her lecture titled “Give Us Adequate Food in Due Season: Establishing a Path to Healthy Living” at the university’s 12th inaugural lecture, Adeniji lamented the shortage of well-established dairy farms in the country to meet its dairy needs despite the nation’s potential to be a leading exporter of dairy products in Africa.
“The World Health Organisation (WHO), and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) recommended that the total daily protein should be 67 grams for average Nigerians,” she said.
“Of this, 58 percent, that is 39 grams should be of animal origin, but the survey showed that only 20 grams (30 percent) was fulfilled. It is a setback that we do not have enough well-established dairy farms in Nigeria to supply our needs.”
She also pointed out that existing farms had suffered neglect in recent years, saying: “The few dairy farms have seriously suffered neglect in the recent past. In most cases, only the local people rear cattle mainly for meat and little dairy products.”
The professor cautioned that inadequate nutrient intake can lead to various health challenges. She explained that nutritional deficiencies occur when the body lacks essential nutrients needed for proper functioning and therefore, it is important to consume balanced diets.
She stressed that maintaining overall health and well-being requires not only proper nutrition but also regular physical activity.
“Regular physical exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health apart from eating a properly prepared balanced diet,” she remarked.
“Physical exercises can improve your brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, and strengthen bones and muscles,” she added.
Adeniji urged the National Universities Commission (NUC) to prioritize nutrition education and awareness within academic institutions. This, according to her, will promote healthy lifestyle choices among students, and create a foundation for good health throughout their lives.
She further encouraged Nigerians to cultivate home gardens, as this would enable them access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
