The Ekiti State Government has described Food Justice as the machinery capable of strengthening the State’s agricultural sector, saying it’s the yardstick for the sustainability of organic food consumption.
The Director General of the Office of Development Partnership in Ekiti State, Abiodun Oyeleye made this statement at a 5-day Youth Bootcamp for Food Justice held at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, Ikogosi-Ekiti, Ekiti State, organised by Corporate for Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA).
Oyeleye also described Ekiti as the ‘home of organic food’, stressing that the boot camp offered the right opportunity for the participating youths to engage in food justice advocacy.
He noted that the program aligns with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s vision of empowering youths and strengthening the state’s agricultural sector, adding that Ekiti is determined to remain the shining light in promoting healthy diets.
He said, “Food consumption, whether for youths or the general population, is like the energy that propels us. It helps us function effectively and efficiently. That’s why this program is very important as it educates young people about proper food intake.
“Here in Ekiti, we have many delicacies. One very popular one is Pounded Yam, which is widely known and associated with Ekiti State. Beyond that, we are blessed with abundant organic foods because agriculture is our area of strength. So when you talk about food justice in Ekiti, you’re in the right place, the right state where you can access natural, organic foods.
“So, when we talk about food production, Ekiti stands out. We are the home of organic food and by coming here, the youth are in the right state, at the right time. Indeed, they will pay for one and get more”.
On her part, the assistant Director of CAPPA, Zikora Ibe, called for legislation to regulate the reckless promotion of unhealthy foods and ensure front-of-pack labeling that allows Nigerians to make informed dietary decisions.
“If a product is high in salt, sugar, or fat, it should be boldly indicated for everyone to see. This is how we can reverse the growing trend of diet-related diseases in Nigeria.” she added
Also, Associate Director of CAPPA’s Food Justice Program, Abayomi Tarumi, explained that the training aimed to build a movement of young Nigerians who will contribute to policy processes and demand government action on public health.
He noted that non-communicable diseases, once associated with the wealthy, are now prevalent among young people, underscoring the urgency of food policy reforms.
Speaking with some participants, ThankGod Ochai and Hope Ndiyamaka Ogunkar expressed their delight at the programme, saying they would use their platforms to sensitise people about food justice in their respective vicinities.
