Amid Nigeria’s current economic challenges, residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are turning to home-cooked meals as a more cost-effective alternative to eating out. Many individuals who previously relied on restaurants due to busy schedules now find themselves unable to sustain the financial burden of dining out, citing skyrocketing food prices.

In separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja, residents shared their experiences and reasons for making the switch. Miss Favour Joshua, a working professional, highlighted how her daily routine of eating out became unsustainable. “I used to eat out daily because of my job, but I soon realized I was spending nearly N30,000 each month, which is half of my salary,” she said.

Favour has since decided to cook at home, explaining that the same amount spent at restaurants could purchase enough food to last her an entire month. “If I take N30,000 to the market, I can buy foodstuff that will last me for a month, especially since I live alone. Now, I prepare my meals at home and take them to work to reduce my expenses,” she added.

Mr. Zackariah Ezra, another resident, echoed Favour’s sentiments, citing the dramatic increase in food prices at eateries. According to him, what used to cost N800 for a meal now demands as much as N4,000. “The last time I tried eating out, I spent N4,000 for a plate of food, which used to cost only N800,” he explained. Like Favour, he has transitioned to cooking at home, finding it much more affordable.

Similarly, Gabriel Ajayi, a student, has also turned to home-cooked meals, finding that buying foodstuff in bulk allows him to stretch his budget further. The rising cost of living has made it difficult for individuals like him to continue dining out regularly.

Miss Elizabeth Akinmuleya, a businesswoman and mother, also praised home cooking as a smart financial move, especially for families. “For large families, cooking at home is more economical. You can save food and ingredients for future meals, which is a major advantage,” she said. Elizabeth noted that eating out has become a luxury rather than a routine, as the cost of dining at restaurants has risen dramatically. “Even if you used to eat out twice a week, things are different now. It’s way too expensive,” she added.

However, not everyone is embracing the home-cooking trend. Mr. Ayobami Adedokun and Mr. Clement Awoyi, both residents of the FCT, prefer the convenience of eating out despite the rising prices. They argue that the difference in cost between preparing meals at home and eating out is minimal, considering the time and effort saved. “For me, it’s about convenience and variety. After a long day, I’d rather pay a little extra for the convenience of not having to cook,” said Ayobami.

Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has taken significant steps toward fulfilling her campaign promises by providing free medical treatments to residents of the FCT. This initiative is part of her ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare access for underserved communities.

Announcing the continuation of the medical outreach on Tuesday, Senator Kingibe expressed her enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing her commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of the people in her constituency. “We are excited to announce that our free Medical Outreach, which commenced on September 8th, will continue for the next few days,” she stated.

The outreach program, aimed at reaching 5,000 people in need, offers a variety of essential medical services. It began at the Old Chief Palace in Kabusa and will extend to other locations in the coming days. “Our next stop is at my Constituency Office, located at No 7, Efab Street, Off Victor B.K Street, Behind Customs Quarters, Kadokuchi, FCT, Abuja,” Kingibe said in a message.

The outreach features a specialized medical team offering services in ophthalmology, including eye surgeries, medical glasses, and treatment for various eye conditions. This comprehensive approach to healthcare addresses the critical need for specialized medical attention, particularly in areas where access to such services is limited.

“Our mission is to provide essential medical services to those in need, and we are committed to making a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of our community,” Kingibe stated. She invited residents to take advantage of the outreach, encouraging them to join hands in working toward a healthier and more inclusive FCT.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, condemning what he calls an alarming rise in the suppression of civil society, organised labour, and the media. Atiku voiced his concerns following the recent arrest of prominent figures, including Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, and the growing clampdown on free speech and civil liberties under Tinubu’s leadership.

In a strongly worded statement, Atiku warned that the ongoing repression marks a dangerous turn for Nigerian democracy. “The escalating assault on civil society and the media by the Bola Tinubu administration is profoundly disturbing,” Atiku remarked, likening the current atmosphere to the darkest days of Nigeria’s military dictatorships. He stressed that the level of control and intimidation now being exerted on various segments of society is unprecedented in Nigeria’s recent democratic history.

Atiku specifically condemned the arrest of NLC President Joe Ajaero, who was reportedly detained while on his way to attend an official event. “This regime’s relentless campaign to intimidate and subdue organised labour is evident in actions like the arrest of Mr. Joe Ajaero,” he said, adding that such actions are designed to stifle dissent and weaken labour unions, which have historically been a powerful voice for workers’ rights in Nigeria.

The former vice president also highlighted the broader implications of the administration’s actions, pointing to a recent incident in which a journalist was briefly detained by security forces, allegedly due to a mistake. “What if the outcome had been fatal?” Atiku asked, underscoring the potential dangers of these repressive tactics.

In his critique, Atiku went on to accuse the government of targeting civil society organisations like the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), which has long championed good governance and accountability in Nigeria. He warned that such attacks on advocacy groups pose a threat to Nigeria’s democratic values.

“This siege is anathema to the principles of freedom and justice,” he declared, urging the Tinubu administration to respect the rights of civil society, the media, and organised labour. Atiku called on Nigerians to remain vigilant in defending their constitutional rights and freedoms, warning that continued silence could embolden further oppressive measures from the government.