A food scientist with the Federal Ministry of Health, Dr Kafayat Adebayo, has advised Nigerians to cut down on over-processed and ultra-processed foods and beverages to protect their health.

Adebayo, who serves as the Oyo State Coordinator of Port Health Services, gave the advice while speaking at the 2026 Quarterly Lecture organised by the Criterion, Oyo District, in Ibadan.

She warned that many highly processed and refined foods lose important nutrients during production and may contribute to the growing burden of chronic and other serious illnesses.

The health expert encouraged Nigerians to take greater advantage of locally available natural foods, including fresh fruits and other nutritious options.

She noted that many traditional foods are not only readily available but can also be more affordable and safer choices for healthy eating.

Adebayo urged members of the public to include more fruits, vegetables and beans in their diets. She also advised Nigerians to avoid eating late at night, exercise regularly and undergo routine medical checks to support early detection and treatment of diseases.

Meanwhile, the Proprietress of Al-Barka Group of Schools, Alhaja Jamilat Gbadegesin, called on members of the public to stay away from illicit drugs.

Gbadegesin made the appeal while delivering a lecture on “Sources of Shariah and its Application in Community.”

She explained that Shariah is a comprehensive framework for Muslims and should not be viewed only through the narrow lens of punishments.

According to her, the Qur’an and Sunnah also promote peaceful coexistence and tolerance toward people of other faiths.

Gbadegesin encouraged Muslims to gain a proper understanding of Shariah and apply its principles responsibly within their communities.

Earlier, the Amirah of Criterion, Alhaja Sakirat Ibraimoh, said the quarterly lecture was organised to educate and mobilise Muslim women on their responsibilities to their families and communities.

Ibraimoh said the programme also encouraged participants to develop positive relationships with people regardless of religious differences and contribute to the welfare of their communities and the environment.

The Chairperson of the Dawan Committee of Criterion, Alhaja Aminat AbdulWahab, commended the speakers and participants for their contributions to the programme.

The lecture provided a platform for discussions on healthy living, religious understanding, community responsibility and positive social values.