It was a power-packed event at this month’s NIFST Lagos Chapter meeting, hosted by the Mainland Zone on Sunday, 25th August, 2024 at the citadel of excellence, Yaba College of Technology, Yaba-Lagos State.

The first speaker, Mrs. Adetoun Onajobi, a bio-wellness coach and social media influencer, spoke on the topic: closing the gap- breastfeeding support for all. She emphasized that one simple yet crucial piece of advice one can always shares with breastfeeding mothers is to stay hydrated. “For your pressure, drink water; For your flow, drink water; For your body and mental health, drink water,” she advised. While some people suggest drinking pap, she stressed that recommending water is straightforward, non-contradictory, and effective. She highlighted the importance of hydration in easing pressure, improving flow, and helping mothers regain their shape by flushing toxins. She advised that men should be supportive to their breastfeeding wife by alleviating pressure and being actively involved, regardless of cultural or religious beliefs.

The second speaker, Dr. Ademola Banjoko, discussed the role of food science in preventing waterborne diseases. He explained that waterborne diseases affect millions of people annually, with diarrhea being a leading cause of death, surpassing diseases like malaria, AIDS, and measles combined. He emphasized the importance of food scientists in preventing these diseases by applying proper food safety practices. He pointed out that while some areas in Lagos have access to good water, poorer areas such as Ajegunle, Ijora Badiya, and Makoko lack clean water, leading to the spread of waterborne diseases. The speaker stressed that clean water is essential for preventing illnesses like typhoid, E. coli infections, and liver diseases, and that more needs to be done to regulate water sources and prevent contamination.

He also highlighted the challenges of water management in Lagos, where contamination often occurs due to poorly located septic tanks and the interaction of rainwater with ground sources. Dr. Ademola expressed concern over sachet water businesses, emphasizing the need for higher standards in water quality and put in place stricter measures for production and compliance by sachet water producers which often contributes to the spread of water Borne diseases if not properly regulated. He concluded by pointing out that climate change and human activities are aggravating water issues, with increased rainfall leading to poor hygiene practices and, consequently, more diseases.

Both speakers made a compelling case for taking action to improve both breastfeeding support and water safety to better protect the health of Nigerians.

Cross Section of Students from Yabatech at the Meeting.

Mrs. Adetoun Onajobi Giving a Talk on Breastfeeding in Celebration of World Breastfeeding Week.

Dr. Ademola Banjoko, giving a Presentation on the Role of Food Science in the Prevention of Water Borne Diseases.

Cross Section of Members at the Meeting.

Faces of Members from the Hosting Zone [Mainland Zone].

Cross Section of Fellows & Elders of the Institute at the Meeting.

Faces of Members from Ikeja Zone.

Members of the High Table.

Members at the Meeting.

Cross Section of Members at the Meeting.

Cross Section of NIFSTers @ the Meeting.

Cross Section of Members at the Meeting.

Members at the Meeting.