A food scientist in the Federal Ministry of Health, Kafayat Adebayo, has warned Nigerians to avoid over-processed and ultra-processed foods to safeguard their health. 

Ms Adebayo, the Oyo State Coordinator, Port Health Services, Federal Ministry of Health, stated this while delivering a health talk at the 2026 quarterly lecture organised by the Criterion, Oyo District, on Sunday in Ibadan. 

She said that most over-processed and refined foods and drinks have been stripped of their beneficial nutrients and contribute to most chronic and life-threatening diseases currently common in society. 

According to the public health expert, Nigeria is blessed with many traditional and natural foods that are available in abundance. 

“Let us look around, choose and eat more natural foods and fruits that are locally available. 

“These foods are often cheaper, safer, and more affordable. 

“By doing this, we can improve our health and reduce our risk of infections, thereby safeguarding both our individual health and public health in Nigeria,” Ms Adebayo said.

 She further advised Nigerians to eat more fruits, vegetables, and beans; avoid late-night eating habits; exercise regularly; and conduct regular check-ups for early disease detection and cure.

 Also speaking, an educationist and proprietress of Al-Barka Group of Schools, Alhaja Jamilat Gbadegesin, urged Nigerians to shun consumption of hard drugs. 

Ms Gbadegesin, who spoke on the topic: “Sources of Shariah and its application in Community”, also said that the Quran and Sunnah urge Muslims to be tolerant of adherents of other religions.

She said that many people in society misunderstood the concept of Shariah and limit it to just cutting off hands.

“Sharia is the law of Allah, and it is not all about cutting off hands or stoning people to death; rather, it is a comprehensive way of life for Muslims which will be beneficial to them if properly followed. 

“I am using this opportunity to encourage all Muslims to learn and understand the meaning of Sharia and how it can be applied appropriately in society,” Ms Gbadegesin said. 

Earlier, the Amirah of Criterion, Alhaja Sakirat Ibraimoh, said the lecture was organised to mobilise and educate Muslims, especially women, on their roles in the community.

Ms Ibraimoh said the lecture taught participants how to relate to others in society, regardless of religion, and to contribute positively to the community and care for the environment. 

“Shariah is not only meant for punishment, but it is also meant to teach us how to contribute positively to our homes and to the people around us,” she said. 

The chairperson of the Dawan committee of Criterion, Alhaja Aminat AbdulWahab, appreciated the two lecturers for their efforts as well as the participants.

(NAN)