By Mercy Onyenweli
The President of Food and Drinks Events Managers of Nigeria (FADEM) Mrs. Pauline Omogbelehan has called for a concerted effort by stakeholders to promote local delicacies in the country.
Mrs Pauline who is also the state woman leader of the labour party LP, lamented on how the people are gradually embracing foods from other cultures at the detriment of local delicacies, noted that if nothing is done to curtail the menace, local Cuisines could be wiped out in the near future.
She made the submission while delivering her welcome address at the FADEM Food and Drinks Festival celebration held at Image Garden in Benin City with the Theme: Back To Our Ethnic Delicacies”
According to her, the health benefits of local Delicacies are enormous and should not be relegated to the background.
“FADEM as a body has seen this gap which is slowly growing and has put up plans to keep our ethnic foods in the hearts of our People. We cannot over emphasised the health benefits derived from some of these foods as well as the sumptuous taste as well”.
“This Festival which has most of the big names and Professionals in the Food and Drinks industry within the Edo/Delta region in participation is meant to bring back old Delicacies”
She however called on all stakeholders to join the movement of promoting Local Delicacies .
High point of the event was the showcasing of different foods and drinks stand by members of the Association.