By Ifeyinwa Ogwo
In light of the rising incidence of illnesses worldwide, Anambra State Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr Don Onyenji, has urged everyone to adopt a healthy lifestyle by consuming indigenous foods. He emphasized that these foods are richer in nutrients, more flavorful, and have medicinal benefits compared to synthetic options.
Onyenji stressed the importance of returning to traditional foods that were consumed in the past to create a healthier society that promotes longevity. “Our forebears enjoyed long lives because they consumed indigenous foods enriched with natural spices that make meals delicious and inviting. We must learn to incorporate these natural spices into our cooking instead of relying on synthetic alternatives.”
The Commissioner made these remarks during a symposium titled “Going Back to Our Roots – Back to Indigenous Foods,” organized by the Centre for Arts, Culture, and Humanities at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
He also highlighted the efforts of the Governor’s wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, through her pet project, “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo,” which emphasizes the importance of organic food for healthy living. This initiative aims to reduce and eradicate sickness and diseases. The Commissioner called on the Palm Tappers Association in every community to ensure their members sell authentic palm wine and report anyone selling adulterated products to the appropriate authorities.
“The government is regulating the activities of herbal medicine practitioners to ensure their products are safe for consumption, which is why the public sale of some items has been banned. This school can produce herbal teas branded in Unizik name, utilizing courses that promote the identification of plants and roots, alongside scientists who can assist with these products,” he said.
Dr. Kamsochukwu Ego Obi, a Public Health Officer, delivered the first lecture and encouraged everyone to consume seasonal fruits, noting that they nourish the body and help repair damaged tissues. “Every fruit in its season has the potential to treat specific diseases. For example, our African star apple (udala) is rich in vitamin C and many multivitamins, and women who consume it in large quantities will find it beneficial for their reproductive health.
“Our forefathers consumed squeezed bitter leaf, which helps reduce inflammation and serves as an analgesic for pain relief. However, today many resort to paracetamol for pain relief, which not only alleviates pain but can also harm the liver. We must stop aggravating our health issues with synthetic foods and return to our indigenous diets,” she said.
“Our roots are not just a remnant of the past; they are the foundation for our future. Let us return to our roots, not to dwell there but to rise stronger, healthier, and wiser. Develop the habit of early meals and avoid relying on take-away foil if you wish to maintain hormonal balance,” Obi concludes.
In her remarks, Dr. Justina Okoli, a Public Health Nurse, the pioneer Chairman of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria in Anambra State, and Acting Head of the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition at Unizik, emphasized that malnutrition and nutrition-related diseases are significant public health challenges that can be prevented by reconnecting with traditional diets and local food systems that have sustained communities for generations.
“Indigenous foods are traditional items native to specific communities or regions, cultivated and gathered using local knowledge passed down through generations, possessing both cultural and nutritional significance. The return to our original origins, traditions, and cultural heritage will help to establish our identity, strength, and sustainability in modern times. It is not about forsaking modern activities, but rather merging them with our cultural pride,” she said.
Dr. Okoli encouraged everyone to promote, grow, and consume indigenous foods, highlighting that these options are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. “Indigenous foods are fresh, affordable, and accessible. It is crucial that we return to our roots, embrace our traditional foods, and ensure we consume them in sufficient variety and quantity to meet our individual nutritional needs.”
The event featured musical performances by the Unizik band group from the Department of Music.
Ifeyinwa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
