Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has endorsed fortified, locally developed foods as strategic solutions to Nigeria’s rising malnutrition crisis.
Speaking in Abeokuta, he praised Omimi Wonder Garri and Fish Powder—products created by HRH Eze Emma Saint George Ekeh—describing them as “life-saving innovations that can nourish the nation, strengthen our people, and support our fight against hunger and insecurity.”
Nigeria continues to face severe food insecurity, with millions of children suffering from malnutrition, worsened by conflicts that disrupt farming and supply chains.
Experts warn that poor nutrition weakens physical and mental capacity, increases vulnerability, and threatens national stability, highlighting the need for nutrient-dense, affordable foods suited for troops, displaced families, and school feeding programs.
The fortified garri, containing 32 grams of protein per 100 grams and 35 vitamins and minerals, has gained international attention, including demand in The Gambia.
Obasanjo urged government agencies and humanitarian bodies to adopt it for military rations and IDP feeding, saying, “This is food for the future, made in Nigeria, for Nigerians.” Eze Ekeh added that the innovation aims to turn cassava into a global nutrition solution.