The place of neglected and underutilized legumes in human nutrition and protein security in Nigeria

Abstract

The enormous effects of food insecurity have worsened in Nigeria and are further heightened by internal conflicts combined with ongoing climate change impacts such as drought and floods. Moreover, food availability is affected by economic challenges especially a weakening of foreign exchange and fiscal revenues, which has reduced the rate of food importation and increased local prices. Furthermore, the geometric increase in population especially in the last five decades has placed enormous pressure on the limited food resources, making it more challenging for agricultural and food systems to sustainably meet local food needs. Put together, these indices are contributing significantly to undernourishment. The huge local legume resources if properly harnessed can contribute toward addressing food insecurity. However, most of the legumes are included in the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization list of underutilized crops. Also, there is an over-reliance on food high in calorie in Nigeria, which is discouraged by nutritionists worldwide. Plant-based protein from legumes is necessary for effective metabolism and human wellbeing. This work highlights the benefits of the sustainable utilization of neglected and underutilized legume resources in Nigeria. The work discusses potential solutions for food insecurity as well as avenues for improving human nutrition and wellbeing.

Keywords:

• Food insecurity
• human population
• hunger
• Nigeria
• nutrition
• protein security
• underutilized legumes

Conflict of interest

The authors declared that they have no conflict of interest.