The Federal Government, along with nutrition experts, healthcare professionals, and regulators, has called on Nigerians to embrace the nutritional benefits of real milk as part of efforts to combat malnutrition and improve nutrition outcomes across the country.
Choose Milk Campaign Launch
This appeal was made during the official launch of the Choose Milk Campaign in Lagos. The campaign is a strategic national initiative focused on helping Nigerian households make informed dairy choices by strengthening consumer education and awareness regarding the nutritional benefits of milk and the distinctions between real milk and creamers.
The launch was attended by stakeholders from the Danish Dairy Board, the European Union, and senior representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Ministry of Livestock Development.
Expert Insights on Dairy Choices
Lars Jense, Senior Project Manager from the Danish Dairy Board, stated, "Not all products marketed within the dairy category deliver the same nutritional value. It is important for consumers to understand that creamers do not offer the key nutrients found in dairy milk. This campaign is about clarity, transparency, and better health outcomes. We are taking this message directly to communities, schools, and nutrition advocates because education at the grassroots level is key to driving lasting behavioral change."
In her opening remarks, the Danish Consul General to Nigeria, Jette Bjerrum, emphasized the need for collaboration, noting that sustainable progress in nutrition education and dairy development can only be achieved through partnerships among governments, healthcare institutions, development organizations, and responsible industry stakeholders.
Speaking in a similar vein, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, in a video message played during the event, added, "This 'Choose Milk' campaign strongly aligns with the Ministry's objectives to improve national nutrition, promote sustainable dairy consumption, and strengthen the local dairy value chain."
The Director of Food and Drugs Services at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufowolabi-Yusuf Adeola MNI, described the campaign as timely and aligned with the Federal Government's broader efforts to tackle malnutrition and improve nutrition outcomes across the country.
Campaign Duration and Goals
The Choose Milk Campaign is expected to run for three years, driving sustained nationwide awareness efforts designed to help Nigerian consumers better understand authentic dairy products and make informed nutritional decisions that support healthier families and communities.
