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Hardship: Top 10 Pocket-friendly Nigerian Meals

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In Nigeria, where the cost of living can vary widely, finding nutritious and affordable meals is essential.

Whether you’re cooking at home or opting to purchase ready-made dishes, it’s entirely possible to enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

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With N750 to N1500, you can purchase a variety of hearty Nigerian meals, from staples like Jollof rice to quick fixes like Indomie noodles with vegetables and a little more to prepare by yourself.

These meals not only provide the necessary nourishment but are also accessible, ensuring that eating well on a budget is within reach for many.

“Pocket friendly” is an informal term used to describe something affordable or reasonably priced.

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It implies that the cost of the item or service won’t put a strain on your budget, making it easy to purchase without financial difficulty.

The PUNCH in a Thursday chat with a Kwara State-based food entrepreneur, Mrs Lateefat Alli-Oluwafuyi, said that health is wealth and good food translates into good health.

She stressed that one should rather try to feed well and stay healthy than get sick these days with the increase in drug prices and get effective treatment.

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“The phrase “health is wealth” underscores the idea that good health is one of the most valuable assets a person can have. The absence of good health can significantly compromise all other aspects of life. A healthy body and mind are the foundation for a fulfilling and productive life.

When we say good food translates into good health, we’re emphasising the critical role that nutrition plays in maintaining and enhancing our well-being. The food we consume directly affects our body’s functioning, energy levels, and overall health.”

With a cross-sectional survey done across the six zones, here are ten economic-friendly meal ideas in Nigeria that are both nutritious and easy on the pocket:

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1. Jollof Rice

Jollof Rice
Ingredients: Rice, tomatoes, onions, pepper, oil, seasoning cubes.
Why: A staple in many Nigerian homes, Jollof rice is affordable and can be prepared with or without protein, making it adaptable to various budgets.

2. Beans and Plantain

Ingredients: Beans, ripe or unripe plantains, palm oil, onions, seasoning.
Why: Beans are an excellent source of protein and are quite affordable. Paired with plantains, it makes a filling meal.

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3. Eba and Egusi Soup

Ingredients: Garri (for Eba), melon seeds, palm oil, vegetables, milk curds (wara), stockfish, or meat (optional).
Why: Egusi soup is rich and can be made with or without meat, depending on your budget. Eba (made from Garri) is inexpensive and filling.

4. Yam Porridge (Asaro)

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Yam porridge | Sisi Jemimah

Ingredients: Yam, palm oil, pepper, onions, spinach or other leafy greens, seasoning.
Why: Yam porridge is a hearty and economical dish, especially when yams are in season.

5. Okra Soup and Fufu

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Fufu with Okra soup
Fufu with Okra soup | African Food Network

Ingredients: Okra, palm oil, crayfish, pepper, seasoning, milk curds (wara), cassava flour (for Fufu).
Why: Okra is affordable and nutritious. Paired with Fufu, it creates a satisfying meal.

6. Beans and Corn Porridge (Adalu)

Ingredients: Beans, corn, palm oil, onions, seasoning.
Why: Combining beans and corn creates a protein-rich meal that’s both filling and affordable.

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7. Noodles with Vegetables

Ingredients: Instant noodles, carrots, cabbage, onions, bell peppers, eggs (optional).
Why: Noodles are quick and cheap. Adding vegetables increases the nutritional value without significantly increasing cost.

8. Acha (Fonio) Porridge

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Ingredients: Acha grains, vegetables, palm oil, onions, seasoning.
Why: Acha is a lesser-known grain but is highly nutritious and can be cooked into a light porridge with minimal ingredients.

9. Moi Moi


Moi Moi Serious Eats
Moi Moi |Serious Eats
Ingredients: Beans, pepper, onions, oil, seasoning.
Why: Moi Moi is a versatile and protein-rich dish that can be eaten alone or as a side.

10. Fried Yam and Akara
Ingredients: Yam, beans (for Akara), oil, pepper, and onions.
Why: A popular street food combination that is inexpensive and can serve as a breakfast or light dinner.

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These meals are not only cost-effective but also easy to prepare, ensuring that you can eat well on a budget.

Good food plays a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing our well-being. The nutrients we consume through a balanced diet—such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and healthy fats—support our body’s functioning, energy levels, and overall health.

Proper nutrition not only provides the energy needed for daily activities but also helps prevent chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

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Additionally, a healthy diet positively impacts mental health, improves mood, and reduces stress.

By making nutritious food choices, we invest in our health, ensuring a longer, healthier life and the ability to handle life’s challenges with resilience.
PUNCH

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PHOTOS: President Tinubu Receives Queen Mary Of Denmark At State House

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, received Queen Mary Elizabeth of Denmark at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday.

The monarch, who paid a courtesy visit to the President, was welcomed at the President’s official residence within the State House.

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Queen Elizabeth was accompanied by the Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Jens Ole Bach Hansen.

The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar; and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, were present at the reception.

READ ALSO:ECOWAS Gets New Chairman As Tinubu’s Tenure Expires

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Following the reception, a closed-door meeting occurred, marking a significant diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Denmark.

In a statement he signed and released vis his verified X page, President Tinubu said the conversation between him and the monarch was constructive and forward-thinking.

It was a distinct privilege to receive Her Majesty Queen Mary Elizabeth of Denmark today at the Aso Villa in Abuja. Together with the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, we welcomed Her Majesty on this important visit to our country.

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“It was a distinct privilege to receive Her Majesty Queen Mary Elizabeth of Denmark today at the Aso Villa in Abuja. Together with the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, we welcomed Her Majesty on this important visit to our country.

READ ALSO:2027: Dead Souls Protesting Against Tinubu In Spirit Realm – Cleric

“Our conversation was warm, constructive, and forward-looking, grounded in mutual respect and the enduring ties between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Denmark. Her Majesty’s presence here stands as a mark of goodwill, shared values, and a renewed commitment to deeper cooperation across key areas,” the President said.

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President Tinubu expressed his government’s commitment to partnerships that open opportunities for Nigerians.

As a government, we remain committed to partnerships that uplift our people, open new opportunities for prosperity, and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come,” he said.

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53 Suspects Arrested Over Benue, Plateau Wedding Killings —  IGP Egbetokun

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Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun on Tuesday announced that 26 persons who actively participated in the killings in Yelwata Community, Benue State, on June 13, 2025, have been arrested.

Egbetokun said 47 people were confirmed to have been massacred during the attack, while 27 others sustained various degrees of injuries.

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He said two of the bandits who were part of the attackers had earlier been killed on the ill-fated day by police operatives when they attacked the police station in the community.

The IGP said, “As you will all recall, on June 13, 2025, between the hours of 11:30 p.m. and 2:00 a.m., armed militias invaded Yelwata Community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, killing and maiming any soul on sight.

“The invaders rampaged and pillaged the community, setting several houses ablaze and maliciously destroying other properties and people’s means of livelihood.

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“It was a coordinated attack of terror against the community.

“In this senseless and barbaric attack, forty-seven (47) persons were confirmed killed, twenty-seven (27) persons sustained various degrees of injuries, and hundreds of others have been displaced but not dead.

“The police and other security agencies responded with adequate deployment of personnel and resources, including the deployment of tactical units and special forces, to restore confidence in the affected community and neighbouring communities.

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READ ALSO:Falana Slams Government Over Failure To Prosecute Suspected Killers In Benue

Also immediately deployed were detectives from our Intelligence Response Team (IRT), who swung into action, launching a manhunt for the perpetrators of the heinous crime.

“I am pleased to inform you today that twenty-six (26) persons directly connected to this crime have so far been arrested and their weapons recovered.

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“On 19th June, two (2) prime suspects who were masterminds of the attack were apprehended from their hideout.

“This arrest led to the arrest of seven (7) other suspects on the following day, 20/06/2025, who were picked up from various locations where they had fled, hoping to evade justice.

“On 21st June, another key suspect in whose house the initial meetings to plan the attack were held was arrested.

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“On 22nd June, a major breakthrough was recorded with the arrest of eighteen (18) other suspects who directly took part in the killings.

“On 23rd June, our detectives recovered two (2) GPMG and eight (8) AK-47 rifles, which were part of the weapons used during the attack.

“All 28 suspects are currently in custody and have voluntarily confessed to their individual and collective roles in the attack.

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READ ALSO:Benue Crisis: I’m Happy Nigerians Rebuked You – VDM Slams Billionaire Kiddwaya For Donation Appeal

As I speak, legal proceedings are being finalised, and they will be charged to court without delay.

“We will go after anyone—planner or executor—who attacks any community in Nigeria. We will leave no stone unturned until every single individual responsible for the killing of innocent Nigerians is arrested and brought to justice.

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Plateau

“Similarly, on 22nd June 2025, a heartbreaking incident occurred in Mangu, Plateau State, where a bus conveying passengers from Zaria was stopped and attacked by a mob.

“Tragically, nine (9) of the passengers were murdered, and three (3) sustained injuries before our teams could intervene and rescue the remaining twenty-two (22) victims.

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“So far, twenty-two (22) suspects have also been arrested in connection with this gruesome act of mob violence.

“They too will face the full wrath of the law in court.

“Again, yesterday (Monday), 23/06/2025, another ugly incident was recorded in Benue, where two (2) persons travelling in a truck were killed at Agan Area, North Bank, Makurdi.

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“Five (5) persons connected to the incident have so far been arrested and will also be made to face the full wrath of the law.

READ ALSO:Benue Killings: ‘This Is Genocide, Not A Dispute’, Tor Tiv Tells Tinubu

“Let me use this opportunity to issue a stern warning: jungle justice, mob action, and taking the law into your own hands have no place in a civilised society.

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“Every Nigerian has the right to life and a fair trial. We will not tolerate any individual or group who attempts to be judge, jury, and executioner.

“Those inciting violence and killing innocent Nigerians are warned to desist forthwith.

“The recent trend of reprisal killings—where innocent citizens are murdered in retaliation for crimes committed by others—is barbaric, senseless, and dangerous.

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“It does not bring justice. It only fuels further hatred, inflames tension, and perpetuates the cycle of violence.

“I want to unequivocally condemn the recent spate of violence across our nation.

“This is not who we are. Violence is not the answer. I call on all Nigerians—regardless of religion, ethnicity, or background—to choose peace, embrace dialogue, and work together for the unity and prosperity of our country.

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“I call on all communities across Nigeria to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and cooperative.

READ ALSO:Benue Massacre: David Mark Blows Hot, Says Self Maybe Last Option

“The security agents deployed to your communities are there to protect you. Work with them. Share information. Stay calm. Together, we will overcome these dark forces.

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“I must acknowledge that the breakthroughs we have recorded—both in Benue and Plateau States—would not have been possible without the strong collaboration and synergy among all security agencies.

“The Nigeria Police Force continues to work hand-in-hand with the military, DSS, NSCDC, and other partners in pursuit of one common goal: to safeguard the lives and property of every Nigerian citizen.

“Our commitment to inter-agency cooperation remains firm and unshaken.

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“I wish to thank Mr. President for providing the required support that facilitated the speedy arrest of the perpetrators of the Benue and Plateau massacres.

“I thank the Nigerian people for their continued cooperation. Your support strengthens our resolve. As we move forward, we appeal for even greater collaboration as we work tirelessly to rebuild trust, restore order, and ensure lasting peace across our dear country.”
(VANGUARD)

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Lagos To Divert Traffic Ahead 110-day Repair Of Ogudu/Ifako Bridge

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The Lagos State Government has released a diversion plan ahead of repair of the Ogudu/Ifako Bridge which will take 110 days.

The state Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

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Osiyemi said that the repair postponed earlier would begin from June 28 and end on Oct. 15.

The commissioner said that the repair was expected to be carried out in eight phases on both lanes.

READ ALSO:95% Of Fever Cases In Lagos Not Malaria – Commissioner

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The first to fourth phases, covering the stretch of Ogudu/Ifako Bridge inbound Alapere, will commence from Saturday, June 28 and end on Saturday, Aug. 16 (50 days).

“Phases five to eight, covering the stretch of Ogudu/Ifako inbound Oworoshoki, will be fixed between Saturday, Aug. 16 and Sunday, Oct. 5 (51 days),” he said.

He advised motorists to use alternative routes during the partial closure of the bridge for the repair.

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“Alternative routes for phase one: Motorists from Iyana Oworo will go through Gbagada to connect Anthony to access Ikorodu Road after which they will have free movement to their desired destinations.

READ ALSO: Scandal: Convicted Inmate Caught Processing Passport, Visa In Lagos

“One lane will be used near work area (50m before and after).

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“For alternative routes for phase two, motorists from Eko Bridge will go through Funsho Williams Avenue to connect Ikorodu Road,” he said.

Osiyemi gave the assurance that officers of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority would be on ground to minimise inconveniences and manage traffic on the routes.

Motorists are implored to be patient during the partial closure of the bridge (50m before and after repair site).”

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(NAN)

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