Stakeholders Call for Collaboration to Promote Food Safety in Nigeria

Agnes Ekebuike

As global food security and sustainability challenges intensify, stakeholders in the food industry in Nigeria have called for a collective responsibility of key stakeholders in ensuring a safe and sustainable food supply.
With the nation’s population projected to reach 440 million by 2050, stakeholders in the food sector are urging swift and collaborative action. At the forefront of the call is the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST), whose recent communiqué at its Annual National Conference in Kano underscored the urgency of prioritising food safety and quality.
Foodborne illnesses pose a significant public health threat worldwide, with an estimated 600 million cases annually. In Nigeria, diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea account for significant morbidity and mortality rates. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that 10 million Nigerians suffer from foodborne illnesses each year, imposing an economic burden of over N500 billion. Beyond public health, these illnesses stifle agricultural output and economic growth, making food safety a key factor in Nigeria’s development. Experts suggest that improving food safety standards could increase the nation’s GDP by up to 10 per cent.
Addressing the challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, the stakeholders said, adding that a robust and enforceable food safety framework is essential.
They urged the government to urgently pass the Food Safety Bill into law and establish functional systems at federal, state, and local levels, insisting that policies must emphasise risk assessment, regular inspections, and stringent penalties for non-compliance. They also stressed the need for public awareness campaigns to educate consumers about food safety’s impact on health and economic stability.
According to the stakeholders, “The private sector also has a critical role to play. Food business operators must implement Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles and Food Safety Management Systems to ensure product quality. Suppliers should adhere to Codex standards for raw materials and labeling, promoting transparency and traceability in the supply chain.
“Street food vendors, responsible for nearly half of Nigeria’s food sales, are a pivotal focus. They must comply with hygiene regulations and resist compromising food safety for profit. Ensuring proper sanitation practices will not only protect consumers but also enhance trust in Nigeria’s food ecosystem.
“Collaboration is key. Media outlets, civil society organisations, research institutions, and international development partners must join forces to promote food safety awareness. Public education, advocacy, and research initiatives are vital for addressing systemic challenges and curbing food fraud. Development partners can further support Nigeria by funding food safety laboratories and training programs for inspectors.”
By uniting efforts, stakeholders can mitigate health risks, bolster economic growth, and secure a healthier future for Nigeria. NIFST’s call to action serves as a reminder that food safety is not just a sectoral concern, but it is integral to national development, the stakeholders further advised.