Basil Odilim
In Nigeria, our dietary habits and lifestyles often reveal more about our true social status than our educational achievements. It is a striking contradiction that many Nigerians, who boast degrees from some of the world’s top universities, continue to live in ways that resemble those of the peasantry—both in terms of diet and overall lifestyle.
Despite our advanced education, many Nigerians exhibit behaviors and choices that starkly contrast with the progress we claim to have made. Take a moment to observe: many individuals who have pursued higher education often present themselves as unkempt, unhealthy, and even unrefined. Our commitment to maintaining a sophisticated public image does not always align with our private practices. The relentless pursuit of financial success often takes precedence over our well-being, leading to poor dietary choices and neglect of health.
I recall an experience from 2001, when Mr. Adams Oshiomhole and other prominent Nigerian elites attended a summer program at Harvard University’s Kennedy School in Boston. They expressed profound distress at missing their native Nigerian diets. Despite their elevated status and advanced education, they were visibly struggling with the absence of familiar foods. I was taken aback that individuals of such stature could be so affected by their diet. To address their needs, I went out of my way to locate a Brazilian tropical market and prepared Nigerian dishes for them in my suburban home in Cambridge, MA.
This experience highlights a critical issue: even highly educated Nigerians often fail to align their lifestyle with the progress they claim to have achieved. The disparity between our educational advancements and our dietary choices reflects a deeper contradiction. While we may excel in academics and social status, our personal health and lifestyle choices frequently lag behind. This dissonance underscores a broader issue—our education and social standing do not always translate into improved health and well-being.
The disconnect between our educational achievements and our lifestyle choices challenges the notion that education alone signifies true progress. Genuine advancement must encompass a commitment to both intellectual and personal well-being, recognizing that a well-rounded approach to life includes healthy living and thoughtful dietary practices.
