The Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Stefano De Leo, has endorsed the use of Nigerian flour for baking Italian pizza, describing it as a sustainable way to blend Italian cooking techniques with local ingredients.
Leo made this statement during the ongoing inaugural event of the 9th Italian International Week of Cuisine in Abuja, which runs from November 15 to 23.
Highlighting the versatility of Italian cuisine, he said, “The Italian cooking techniques and ingredients can also be used with ingredients from a far land, and this can be sustainable by using local products of our host community instead of importing flour from Italy.”
The ambassador emphasised that incorporating Nigerian flour in pizza-making would enhance the local flour market and benefit the nation’s economy.
“So, by patronising Nigerian flour, it will add value to the Nigerian flour market. Also, what we are saying is that we can make a lot of things without importing our products from our country,” he said.
“This will boost the local economy and attract interest to Nigerian food sectors by invariably encouraging the local farmers in Nigeria.”
Leo also described the event as a celebration of the Italian lifestyle, which he noted is a significant contributor to the country’s economy.
“The embassy celebrates the Italian lifestyle because it’s part of our economy, which includes pasta, pizza, tractors, seeds, technology, and agriculture, and whatever is linked to food is what makes Italy important for tourists,” he said.
“Tourists go to Italy to taste the pizza and wine, which is part of our economy, and that’s why we celebrate the Italian lifestyle all around the world in November.
“To share with our host communities and friends our kind of lifestyle by enjoying life with them. Also looking for partners who will want to buy our wine, invest in agribusiness, and buy our technology.”
The ambassador further stated that the event fosters partnerships and business opportunities by promoting Italian expertise in agribusiness and technology.
NAN reports that the pizzas showcased at the event included Neapolitan, Sicilian, Roman, and Bagel pizzas, among others.
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