Vice Chancellor, management and inaugural lecturer, Professor Temitope Tiamiyu Alade.
Professor Temitope Tiamiyu Alade, a Professor of Human Kinetics and Health Education at Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Ikere-Ekiti, has urged Nigerians to return to healthier traditional eating habits and embrace regular physical exercise, saying a healthy population remains the foundation for a productive and prosperous nation. Alade made the call while delivering the 10th inaugural lecture at the university hall titled “Healthy People, Healthy Nation: Issues of Lifestyle and National Productivity.”
Alade said Nigeria’s quest for economic growth must begin with investment in the health and wellbeing of its citizens, stressing that an unhealthy population cannot sustain the level of productivity required for national development. He explained that healthy people are better positioned to work efficiently, remain mentally alert and contribute meaningfully to their families, organisations and communities.
The don identified poor dietary behaviour, physical inactivity, inadequate sleep, stress and unhealthy relationships as major lifestyle issues capable of affecting individual wellbeing and national productivity. He urged Nigerians to pay closer attention to their everyday choices, noting that small lifestyle decisions could have significant consequences for long-term health and productivity.
He particularly encouraged citizens to reduce their dependence on processed foods and embrace healthier traditional diets containing fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. According to him, Nigerians must rediscover healthier food practices of earlier generations and make balanced nutrition a regular part of their lives.
Alade also called for a stronger culture of physical activity, urging Nigerians to devote time to regular exercise. He recommended at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity every week, saying exercise improves physical fitness, supports mental wellbeing and enhances the capacity of individuals to perform effectively.
He further advocated stronger health education in schools, workplaces and communities, describing health educators as important agents of behavioural change. Alade said health educators could empower citizens with the knowledge, attitudes and skills needed to make informed health decisions, prevent diseases and develop healthy habits that could last a lifetime.
The inaugural lecturer also urged the government and other stakeholders to create environments that support healthy living through recreational facilities, safe walking routes, clean water, proper sanitation and supportive public policies.
Speaking with journalists after the lecture, BOUESTI Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andrew Babatunde Omojola, described the lecture as timely, saying, “If we are not healthy as a people, we are not a healthy nation.” He urged policymakers to act on the recommendations and encouraged students to appreciate the importance of Human Kinetics and physical activity in building a healthier and more productive Nigeria.
