The Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN), Ekiti State Chapter, successfully hosted its maiden Scientific Symposium and Nutrition Summit from 9th–10th June 2026, bringing together nutrition professionals, researchers, academics, students, government officials, development partners, and other stakeholders to discuss critical issues relating to food security and nutrition.
In her welcome address, the State Chairperson, Dr. Funmilayo Esther Omotoye, appreciated participants, members of the organizing Committee, and partners for their support in ensuring the success of the event. The symposium also featured remarks from the Chairman of the Central Organizing Committee, Dr. Mary Ajatta, and the Chief Medical Director of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Professor J.K. Olabanji.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Oluwaseun Ariyo, who emphasized the need for practical implementation of policies that will enhance food security and improve nutrition outcomes. He also called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address food and nutrition challenges in Nigeria.
Technical and plenary sessions featured presentations by Dr. Mrs. Bolanle V. Olorunyomi on the nutrition situation in Ekiti State, Professor Kayode Ajayi on translating nutrition research into policy, and Dr. Precious Ayodeji on food security and adequate nutrition for healthier populations. The sessions generated insightful discussions on nutrition advocacy, food systems, policy implementation, and sustainable strategies for addressing malnutrition.
A major highlight of the symposium was the inter-institutional debate involving students from Ekiti State University, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti, Afe Babalola University, and Ekiti State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ijero-Ekiti. At the conclusion of the competition, Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) emerged as the overall winner, while Ekiti State University secured second place. Participating institutions received certificates and cash prizes in recognition of their performance.
The symposium also featured oral and poster presentations by researchers and practitioners, providing opportunities for knowledge sharing and dissemination of evidence-based nutrition practices. In addition, the executives of the Nutrition and Dietetics Students Association of Nigeria (NADSAN), Ekiti State Chapter, were inaugurated and sworn into office, reaffirming the Society’s commitment to mentoring and developing future leaders in the nutrition profession.
As part of the event, awards were presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth of nutrition and the advancement of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria in Ekiti State. Notable award recipients included Prof. B.I.C. Brai, Dr. Oluwaseun Ariyo, Dr. Funmilayo Esther Omotoye, Dr. Mary Ajatta, Dr. Bolanle V. Olorunyomi, Professor Kayode Ajayi, and Professor J.K. Olabanji.
The symposium recorded a total of 176 participants and concluded with a commitment by members to sustain the initiative as a regular platform for professional engagement, scientific exchange, and collaborative action towards improved nutrition outcomes in Ekiti State and Nigeria.
The successful maiden symposium reaffirmed the commitment of the NSN Ekiti State Chapter to advancing nutrition advocacy, research, capacity building, and stakeholder collaboration in support of national food and nutrition goals.
