Author: Adewale Kupoluyi

Eka soup may not be as globally-famous as egusi or ogbono, but for those who know it, this humble dish is pure comfort. Simple, nourishing, and deeply traditional, eka soup is a lesser-known Nigerian soup that highlights the beauty of local ingredients and slow, intentional cooking. Often prepared in rural communities and family homes, eka soup reflects a time when meals were built around what nature provided, fresh leaves, seeds, and minimal seasoning, yet still delivered rich flavour and nourishment. What is eka soup? Eka soup is a traditional Nigerian soup made primarily from eka leaves (locally sourced leafy vegetables), palm oil,…

The latest Selected Food Price Watch, released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), has indicated that food prices declined across key staples in January 2026, triggering mixed reactions among consumers, farmers and processors. Data from the statistics office showed that the average price of locally produced rice fell 10.94% year-on-year to ₦1,841.83 per kilogram, while brown beans plunged 48.65% to ₦1,262.43, onion and tomatoes also recorded annual declines of 17.87% and 5.25%, respectively, pointing to easing pressures in selected food categories. However, crayfish rose sharply by 39.07%, underscoring persistent volatility in protein prices. The report also highlighted sharp state and regional disparities, with…

The Abia State Government has advised farmers to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices as the state is projected to experience above-normal rainfall in 2026. The warning follows the Seasonal Climate Prediction, released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency. In a ‘2026 Climate Outlook and Farming Advisor’ issued, the state Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, provided critical guidance to farmers across the state to ensure a productive farming season. According to NiMet, Abia State is expected to record annual rainfall between 1,800 millimeters and 2,200mm. The rainy season is forecast to begin between late March and early April and end between late October and…

Oha soup is one of the most cherished traditional soups in Eastern Nigeria. Rich, aromatic, and deeply comforting, this soup is more than just a meal, it is a cultural symbol of hospitality, celebration, and family gatherings. Known for its distinctive flavour and tender oha leaves, this soup is often served during special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and important visits. What is oha soup? Oha soup is a traditional Nigerian soup native to the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria. It is made using oha leaves, cocoyam paste as a thickener, palm oil, assorted meats, stockfish, and local spices. What makes oha soup unique is the…

The United Nations Development Programme and the Bank of Agriculture have signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at transforming Nigeria’s agricultural financing architecture and launching a One Million Hectare Tree Crop Programme. The agreement, signed at the United Nations House in Abuja, also featured the symbolic handover of Information and Communication Technology equipment to strengthen BOA’s institutional capacity. Speaking at the event, UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Elsie Attafuah said Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms must translate into tangible benefits for citizens. “Nigeria is in the middle of one of the most consequential reform cycles in decades”, she said. Citing foreign exchange reform, fuel subsidy removal, fiscal…

Coconut rice is one of those meals that feels both comforting and special at the same time. Rich, aromatic, and naturally creamy, this dish is loved across Nigeria for its irresistible flavour and simplicity. Whether cooked for family lunch, festive occasions, or as a comforting weekday meal, coconut rice stands out as a dish that turns everyday rice into something truly memorable. Beyond its delicious taste, coconut rice also offers nutritional benefits, especially when prepared with fresh ingredients and balanced portions. What is coconut rice? Coconut rice is a rice-based dish cooked in fresh coconut milk or coconut extract instead of plain water…

President Bola Tinubu has approved the extension of the ban on the export of raw shea nuts for another year, from February 26, 2026, to February 25, 2027. The approval, announced in a State House press release, signals the administration’s continued push to boost domestic processing, deepen value addition, and strengthen Nigeria’s industrial capacity within the agricultural value chain. According to the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the decision aligns with the government’s industrialisation objectives under the Renewed Hope Agenda. “The decision underscores the administration’s commitment to advancing industrial development, strengthening domestic value addition, and supporting the objectives…

If you’ve ever visited Port Harcourt or any part of southern Nigeria, chances are you’ve smelled bole (semi-ripe plantain) and fish before you even saw it. The smoky aroma of roasted plantain, the sizzling sound of grilled fish, and the spicy scent of pepper sauce together create one of Nigeria’s most iconic street food experiences. Bole and fish is more than just a meal, its culture, community, and comfort wrapped in foil. What is bole and fish? Bole and fish is a popular Nigerian street food made with roasted ripe or semi-ripe plantains (bole) served alongside grilled fish and spicy pepper sauce. It…

My recent visit to Kaduna State, particularly Zaria, was a revelation in agricultural productivity that could serve as a model for other states in Nigeria wrestling with rising food costs. Traveling along the express-road from Abuja to Kaduna, I was struck by the extensive crop plantations flanking the road for several kilometres. This unambiguously contrasts with my experiences in southwest Nigeria, where the open landscape is often dominated by encroaching bushes that require government funding for clearing – money that could be better invested in productive agricultural initiatives. In Kaduna, particularly along the expressways, I observed the efficient use of land.…

Beans are one of the most underrated, yet powerful foods in the Nigerian diet. From akara to moi-moi, porridge beans to beans and plantain, this humble legume has fed generations, providing strength, energy, and nourishment at an affordable cost. But beyond being a budget-friendly pantry staple, beans are a true superfood packed with nutrients that support growth, energy, heart health, digestion, and long-term wellness. If you’re looking to improve your health or find healthier food options for your family, beans deserve a permanent space on your plate. Why beans are so important in the Nigerian diet In many Nigerian households, beans are a weekly (even daily)…