A professor of Public and Community Health Nursing at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Professor Elkenah Ndie, has advised against recommending specific yam varieties for diabetic patients.
Speaking during NOUN’s 30th Inaugural Lecture in Abuja, Professor Ndie emphasised that portion control, rather than the type of yam consumed, should be the focus of diabetes management.
“It is common to hear people advising diabetic patients to avoid some varieties of yam while consuming others. In this study, the amylose and amylopectins were analysed, and the results showed that although these components vary across yam varieties, there was no significant statistical difference in their content. The conclusion is that no type of yam should be recommended for diabetic patients. Rather, the quantity consumed should be controlled,” he stated, referencing research findings.
He further urged diabetic patients to monitor their diets closely and adhere to dietary guidelines.
“On diabetes, people should obey the rules by controlling what they eat. Whatever you are eating, you should know the glycaemic index and avoid drinking anyhow,” he advised.
Professor Ndie also highlighted the importance of vegetable consumption for all, cautioning against excessive fruit intake.
“You have to be very careful with fruits,” he added, noting that the body only requires small amounts at a time.
Addressing public safety, he urged the government to implement measures to reduce avoidable deaths, particularly those caused by road accidents.
He proposed mandatory drug and blood sugar tests for drivers to deter reckless behaviour, stating, “Accidents are claiming lives every day, almost every second. There should be a system, like in developed countries, where police stop reckless drivers, test their blood sugar and drug levels, and take action if they exceed normal limits. This is the only way to solve the problem. Without this, more lives will be lost.”
Professor Ndie commended NOUN for addressing the identity crisis within the nursing profession, which has seen discrimination between degree and diploma certificate holders. He praised the university’s efforts to integrate both systems and expand training opportunities for nurses.
“I wish to congratulate NOUN for integrating both systems and offering opportunities for those seeking further nursing training. Today, NOUN has produced the highest number of nursing graduates compared to its counterparts. I am proud to say that I contributed greatly to this growth and progress,” he said.
He also applauded efforts to challenge the stereotype that nursing is exclusively a female profession, urging families to prioritise having a nurse among their members. “Where there is no nurse, there is no care. A family without a nurse is a family without care,” he asserted.
The Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Olufemi Peters, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Chiedu Mafiana, commended Professor Ndie for delivering an insightful and impactful lecture.
He lauded the professor’s significant contributions to academia and the nursing profession, describing his work as exemplary.
