By Blessing Bature
Nutrition experts, government officials, healthcare professionals and development partners have launched the “Choose Milk” campaign to improve public understanding of the nutritional value of dairy milk and educate consumers on the difference between milk and non-dairy creamers.
The initiative, unveiled in Lagos, is being implemented through a partnership involving the Danish Dairy Board, the European Union, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and the Ministry of Livestock Development.
Speaking at the launch, Senior Project Manager of the Danish Dairy Board, Mr. Lars Jensen, said the campaign seeks to correct widespread misconceptions surrounding dairy products and help Nigerians make healthier dietary choices.
He explained that many products sold within the dairy category do not provide the same nutritional benefits as real dairy milk, noting that creamers often lack essential nutrients needed for healthy living.
Jensen added that the campaign would focus on schools, local communities and nutrition advocates as part of efforts to encourage long-term behavioural change and improve nutrition awareness across the country.
Also speaking, Danish Consul General to Nigeria, Ms. Jette Bjerrum, highlighted the importance of partnerships between government institutions, healthcare organisations, development agencies and private sector stakeholders in strengthening nutrition education and advancing the dairy industry.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the campaign as consistent with the Federal Government’s drive to improve nutrition, encourage sustainable dairy consumption and support the development of the local dairy value chain.
According to him, increasing dairy milk consumption among Nigerians would contribute to better health outcomes and national food security.
Director of Food and Drug Services at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Mrs. Adeola Olufowobi-Yusuf, said public education remained critical in helping citizens understand the health benefits of proper nutrition and make informed food choices for their families.
She noted that the campaign would help close existing nutrition knowledge gaps by providing accurate information on healthy dietary practices.
The three-year programme will feature school sensitisation activities, community outreach campaigns, radio and television programmes, social media engagement and other public awareness initiatives aimed at promoting healthier nutrition habits nationwide.
