Business
‘Avoid Consuming Red Meat During Festive Season’
A food technologist, Dr Olusegun Obadina, has warned the public to desist from eating excessive red meat, saying it could contain some antibiotic resistants that are harmful to the body.
Obadina, also an Associate Professor of Food Technology at the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, told newsmen in Lagos, recently.
He said the warning had become imperative considering the rate at which the public would consume red meat during the Yuletide and other festivities.
“People tend to consume too much of red meat during the celebrations but in all caution must not be thrown to the winds.
“This warning becomes imperative because bacteria in our meat supply are becoming antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic bacteria are affecting the population.
“Antibiotic resistant bacteria can be spread through medical procedures; the unhygienic preparation of the meat in the abattoirs is majorly the cause of this.
“The overuse of antibiotics in humans for illnesses like cold or flu is typically the first thought that comes to mind. But what about antibiotics grown in meat?’’ he said.
Obadina said, “Several farms are doping their animals without being supervised by a veterinarian and this can create the perfect breeding ground for antibiotic resistant bacteria.
“Meat infected with antibiotic resistant bacteria can be transferred from abattoirs to the consumer and when it is consumed by humans, it can decrease the effectiveness of antibiotics in their bodies as well.
“The general public should either cut short the consumption of red meat or rather stay away if they do not trust the source,’’ he said.
Nkpemenyie Mcdominic
Reports say that the training is designed to equip youths with practical technical skills for employment in the oil and gas and construction sectors, with emphasis on employability, safety, competence and self reliance.
In attendance at the flag-off ceremony this week, at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Hall, Effurun, were stakeholders, dignitaries, and political representatives, among others.
Dafinone, represented by his Chief of Staff, Adelabu Bodjor, said the initiative reflects a deliberate political investment in human capital development across Delta Central.
He explained that the training focuses on rigging and scaffolding, noting that “both are essential technical competencies required in industrial operations, construction projects, and oil and gas installations”.
Bodjor added, “The programme is intended to reduce dependency among youths by providing job-ready skills capable of supporting long-term economic opportunities and self-sufficiency. The initiative aligns with Senator Dafinone’s broader development agenda, which prioritises practical skill acquisition as a pathway to sustainable empowerment.”
Also addressing the participants, the NCDMB, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Mr. Teddy Bai, commended Dafinone for sponsoring the programme, describing it as “a timely response to critical manpower gaps in the industry”.
Bai explained that rigging and scaffolding remain safety-sensitive skills required across fabrication yards, offshore platforms, and construction sites, stressing that the programme bridges the gap between certification and practical competence.
He also charged the training consultant, OROH Contractors Limited, to maintain strict standards of professionalism, safety, and discipline, while urging participants to remain committed, focused, and disciplined throughout the exercise.
The Senate Liaison Officer for Sapele Local Government Area, Chief Patrick Akamuvba, , described the programme as a major step in strengthening human capital development in Delta Central.
Akamuvba said scaffolding and rigging skills are in high demand across residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects, noting that the training offers real employment opportunities for beneficiaries
He urged participants to prioritise knowledge and certification over short-term material expectations, stressing that discipline and seriousness would determine their long-term success.
He also cautioned youths against social vices and distractions, advising them to remain focused to maximise the opportunities provided by the programme.
