GAIN Tasks Journalists on Promoting Nutrition, Healthy Food Systems

The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) has called on journalists across Nigeria to play a more active role in promoting healthy diets and food systems, stressing the media’s power to shape public perception and influence national conversations on nutrition.

This charge was delivered by GAIN Country Director, Dr. Michael Ojo, at the opening of a two-day media training on nutrition and data-driven storytelling held in Abuja.

Speaking through the organisation’s Senior Associate, Communications, Mr. Victor Ekeleme, Dr. Ojo said journalists are key partners in the push for healthier food systems.

> “You shape narratives, influence conversations, and affect how people act or talk about food and nutrition,” he said. “We want you to help us push stories that promote better nutrition and healthier lifestyles.”

He noted that the workshop was not just another training session, but a platform to equip media professionals with tools to use data in crafting impactful stories.

> “We have gone beyond just telling stories. We now use data to make those stories more powerful. By the end of this training, we hope you leave with stronger skills, better networks, and renewed inspiration,” he added.

The event, which drew participants from across the country, featured presentations from nutrition experts including Dr. Olapeju Phorbe, a food systems consultant.

In her session on basic nutrition principles, Dr. Phorbe urged Nigerians to diversify their diets using the abundant local food options available.

> “Nigeria is blessed with food diversity. If only people knew how to make better choices, they would live healthier lives,” she said. “Food is medicine. If you don’t take food as medicine, medicine will become your food.”

She warned against the distribution of expired or unsafe food items, especially to vulnerable populations as palliatives.

> “It is dangerous and inhumane. People without options will eat whatever they’re given. It’s better to go hungry than to eat unsafe food,” Dr. Phorbe said, urging authorities to enforce stricter food safety regulations.

She also challenged the media to increase coverage of nutrition and health, noting that public trust in journalism gives reporters unique power to shape behaviours.

> “Journalists must be deliberate about spreading nutrition messages. These conversations should reach the federal, state, and local levels,” she said.

The workshop underscored the need for collaborative efforts between the media and nutrition stakeholders to address malnutrition and food insecurity in Nigeria.