As part of its efforts to promote healthy dietary habits and reduce the level of malnutrition amongst women in Lagos State, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has organised an ‘Advocacy on Healthy Nutrition’ as an intervention programme for over 300 grassroots families in the Ajeromi Local Government and Ifelodun Local Council Development Area of the state.

Speaking at the programme held on Tuesday at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Hall, Ifelodun LCDA, the Commissioner for WAPA, Mrs Cecilia Dada, stressed the importance of healthy eating habits as a means to maintain good health and overall well-being, particularly for women.

“One major challenge faced by women and adolescent girls in achieving healthy dietary habits is due to the increased nutritional needs associated with menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation, therefore, it is important to make a conscious effort to prioritise good health and complete wellbeing,” Dada said.

She added that “Lagos State is blessed with a rich agricultural heritage, and we are therefore surrounded by a variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains that are indigenous to our region.

“This is why women are encouraged to incorporate these local edibles into their daily meals, and by doing this, they can ensure that they are consuming nutritious food while also supporting local farmers and businesses.”

Also speaking, the Nutrition Officer of Ajeromi Ifelodun General Hospital, Mr Olusola Malomo, who noted that women play vital roles in food selection and preparation, said, “You need to be intentional about good health and embrace eating fresh foods and fruits because of the positive health benefits, and reduce your salt intake so that you can maintain a nutritionally balanced healthy lifestyle.”

Nutrition packs, which consist of local staple foods, were distributed to participants at the programme.