LAGOS/Nigeria: In a bid to spotlight the rich culinary heritage of Nigeria while boosting tourism, the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF) has forged an alliance with Catalysts Integrated Developing Agro Company (CIDAC) International Ventures. This partnership came to life through an exhibition and sale of indigenous Nigerian foods and food items, catering specifically to tourists visiting the Lekki Conservation Center in Lagos.
Dr. Joseph Onoja, the Director-General of NCF, emphasized the significance of the Eco and Food Tourism event. Speaking to the press, he highlighted its role in showcasing the diverse array of culinary skills and foods inherent to the nation. “The event is a platform to display our country’s culinary diversity and the essential role of the environment in providing these food products, aligning perfectly with our passionate commitment,” Dr. Onoja stated, represented by Mr. Ayodele Alamu from the Business and Development Department of NCF.
Furthermore, Dr. Onoja expressed the foundation’s delight in partnering with CIDAC to ensure widespread promotion of the event. He underscored the immense potential within food tourism waiting to be harnessed.
Mrs. Bridget Olotu, the Founder of Catalysts Integrated for Developing Agro Company (CIDAC) International Ventures and Native Food Mart, advocated for governmental support for rural farmers. She highlighted the pressing need for infrastructural provisions and equipment to aid these farmers, including improved roads for transportation and access to electricity.
Olotu stressed CIDAC’s concerted efforts to collaborate with women and youth farmers across various Nigerian communities to enhance their produce and meet international standards. The establishment of an online native food mart was also a strategic move to facilitate the global accessibility of Nigerian food items.
“We are deeply committed to community-driven initiatives and firmly believe in the empowerment of Nigerians for the growth of our nation,” Olotu affirmed. She emphasized the organic nature of most Nigerian foods and drew a parallel to Asian societies where indigenous foods hold high esteem.
Highlighting some of CIDAC’s premium offerings such as Ofada Garri, Ofada Rice, Barbara nuts, Kano spices, palm oil, and plantain and fish products, Olotu mentioned the growing demand from countries like the US and Canada for these indigenous Nigerian foods. This demand has prompted CIDAC to facilitate the export of their products worldwide.
The collaboration between CIDAC and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation stands as a significant move towards not only promoting Nigerian foods but also fostering sustainable tourism while celebrating the nation’s rich culinary heritage.
