Prioritise locally made food, Kwara residents urged

Mrs Jemila Adamu Gene, the Principal Agricultural Officer at the Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, has urged the residents of the state to actively seek out fresh and locally sourced foods that are not only beneficial for health but also support local farmers.

Mrs Gene made the call on Tuesday at the maiden edition of the Radio Kwara Nutrition Programme titled ‘’Adequate Nutrition & Healthy Living’’ organised by the State Ministry of Communications.

Mrs Gene, while emphasising the importance of incorporating nutrient-rich foods from local markets into daily diets, also explained the critical role of local agricultural produce in enhancing food security and nutrition.

She said, “When shopping in local markets, look for vibrant fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, which are packed with essential vitamins and minerals”, she advised.

Mrs Gene further highlighted the specific foods that are particularly rich in nutrients and excellent sources of iron and calcium, such as leafy green vegetables, namely Ugwu, Luru, and Ewedu, which are known for their high vitamin C content and stressed the need for consumers to be aware of seasonal produce, which tends to be fresher and more nutritious.

She, while noting the economic benefits of buying locally, urged the residents of the state to visit local markets regularly and engage with farmers to learn more about the nutritional value of various crops, saying it is a collective responsibility to prioritise health through mindful food choices.