The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, GAIN has emphasized the urgent need for youths to get involved in food system transformation, stating that no transformation can take place in Nigerian food sector without the youth
GAIN National Programme Coordinator for Scaling Up Nutrition Mr. Tomisin Odunmbaku made this known while speaking during a keynote address at “Jaw War” 2025, a largest and most prestigious university debating competition in Africa, held at the University of Ibadan.
Newsarena.ng reports that GAIN leads the sponsor for the 2025 edition’s opening ceremony, organized by the Literary and Debating Society of the University of Ibadan.
The event drew over 3,000 students, academics, and stakeholders for a high-impact discussion on nutrition and food security with the theme “Food and Food System Transformation: The Role and Involvement of Youth,”
Mr. Odunmbaku said “You, the debaters, the thinkers, the creators, the digital natives are not just the leaders of tomorrow; you are the innovators of today.”
“Malnutrition is a huge challenge in Nigeria. Three out of five children are malnourished, while nine out of ten Nigerians consume contaminated food. With the President’s recent declaration of a state of emergency on food security, we know all hands must be on deck. That’s why we are collaborating with the University of Ibadan, to leverage the innovation and fresh ideas of students and youth to transform our food system,” Odunmbaku explained.
Mr. Odunmbaku further stressed that the arguments and solutions shared during the debates would not end in the hall but could influence wider conversations around policy-making, youth engagement, and private sector action in nutrition.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Babatimehin Peace, President of TLDS, described Jaw War as a defining platform for intellectual engagement in Nigeria and across Africa.
“This competition spans seven rounds, and for today, we have partnered with GAIN to spotlight food security and nutrition. Our speakers have been preparing since May, and we expect to hear deep insights on how young people can contribute to food security both in Africa and globally,” he said.
“Jaw War is more than just a competition; it is a classroom of ideas where the brightest minds come together to challenge one another and shape conversations that matter. For us at TLDS, this is about grooming the next generation of leaders who can think, speak, and act for Africa’s progress.”
Former TLDS President and immediate past Students’ Union President, Aweda Bolaji, also praised the significance of the platform.
“Jaw War is always amazing. It gives speakers from different halls of residence and faculties the chance to showcase eloquence while addressing issues that matter to Africa. This year, we continue to promote conversations that can drive positive change across the continent. Every edition of Jaw War shows that the Nigerian youth have the intelligence and the courage to shape Africa’s destiny,” he noted.
The 2025 edition is expected to feature intense showdowns across halls and faculties, leading up to the highly anticipated finale in October, where a new champion will be crowned in what has become a defining tradition of Nigeria’s premier university.
