The Institute for Dietetics in Nigeria (IDN) has faulted the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security’s recent directive encouraging fasting and prayers as a means to achieving food security, describing the move as unscientific and constitutionally inappropriate.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 14, and jointly signed by the National President, Tajudeen Olutope Ahmed, and National Secretary, Aliyu Hassan, the professional body expressed disappointment that a science-oriented ministry would resort to spiritual interventions over evidence-based policy and action. The IDN referred specifically to a circular dated June 11, 2025, with Ref. No. AGR. 12/S.27/1091/I/12, which directed staff members to seek divine intervention for the success of the Ministry’s mandate.
The Institute argued that placing hope in prayers for the nation’s food crisis runs counter to Nigeria’s constitution, which discourages the state from adopting any religion as its official creed. It noted that food security challenges require practical and research-driven solutions, not spiritual exercises.
“The resolve to prioritise prayer over professionalism and science is not only disappointing, it is worrisome,” the statement read. “We find it bewildering that a federal ministry mandated with the critical task of ensuring food sufficiency would turn to fasting and prayers, rather than engage experts and embrace innovation.”
The IDN recalled that in 2024, it convened a national scientific conference in Keffi to develop evidence-based responses to the nation’s growing food insecurity. While invitations were extended to the Ministry and the Honourable Minister of Agriculture, the group lamented that neither the Minister nor any representative honoured the invitation or participated in the proceedings.
According to the Institute, the conference yielded several innovative scientific breakthroughs that could have informed national strategy on food security. However, the Ministry’s absence meant it missed out on vital research insights and expert recommendations from professional dietitians.
The Institute further criticised the apparent marginalisation of registered dietitians and nutritionists in the staffing of the Ministry, warning that entrusting nutritional matters to unqualified personnel undermines national food quality and safety. “Nutrition should not be left in the hands of quacks. We urge the Ministry to urgently recruit competent dietitians and nutritionists in adequate numbers,” it added.
Calling for a shift in approach, IDN urged the Ministry to “perish the wishful thinking” of solving food insecurity with prayers and instead “embrace adequate research, appropriate action and professionalism.” It stressed that tackling the nation’s food problems demands seriousness, strategic planning, and scientific collaboration—not religious sentiments.
The IDN reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with the Ministry and other stakeholders but maintained that Nigeria’s food crisis can only be resolved through policy-driven science and professional engagement.