Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare says it has collaborated with the US Department of Agriculture to promote safe and healthy food systems in the country.
As part of their collaboration, they launched four Technical Working Groups (TWGs) in Abuja on Friday to tackle specific aspects of food safety, representing a significant step forward in their joint effort.
These groups include: risk-based regulations; risk analysis in food and feed safety; food and SPS (Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary) inspection; traceability and supporting technologies; education for all stakeholders; and research.
The TWGs will provide expert guidance and leadership to enhance collaboration, build capacity, and foster strategic partnerships among stakeholders, ultimately strengthening and harmonizing Nigeria’s regulatory framework and risk-based food safety systems.
On the occasion of World Food Day 2024, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, remarked that while food safety is crucial, it’s equally important to ensure that food is not just safe but also nutritious and healthy, highlighting the need to go beyond mere food safety to prioritize food quality.
He elaborated that the updated national policy outlines a strategic framework to limit the consumption of harmful substances like salt, trans fats, sugar, and alcohol, aiming to promote the adoption of healthy diets across the country.
He said: “We aim to alleviate the growing burden of non-communicable diseases that afflict our country.
“However, the implementation of this policy is not a solitary journey; it demands the concerted efforts of all parties at both national and subnational levels. This includes our diligent farmers who nurture the soil, the regulators who forge the guidelines, the scientists whose innovations enhance safety, and the consumers who make informed choices with every purchase and every bite.
“As we gather to mark 2024 World Food Safety Day, we are reminded of the delicate balance that sustains this vital aspect of our lives.
“This year’s theme, ‘Food safety: prepare for the unexpected,’ is a clarion call to action, a reminder that vigilance is the guardian of our sustenance and unforeseen events that can compromise the integrity of our food supply.”
The Minister, represented by Mr. Daju Kachollom, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health, affirmed that despite the numerous challenges, the government remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting and ensuring healthy food consumption.
The minister commented on the revised policy on food safety and quality, saying that it is based on the one health approach, which aims to address a range of important health issues.
He noted that the policy takes a comprehensive approach, incorporating principles of risk analysis, addressing emerging contaminants in the food supply, and setting up a coordinated system to monitor and respond to foodborne illnesses.
Pate said: “Preparedness is not just a watchword but our shield against the unpredictable tides of adversity. It is with this spirit that the FMHSW, in concert with our esteemed stakeholders and partners, has meticulously revised the National Policy on Food Safety and Quality and its Implementation Plan. Today marks a significant milestone as we unveil this pivotal document.
“It sets forth benchmarks for the safe handling, marketing, and sale of food throughout our nation.”
Kelly Scavella, the Programme Manager at the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS), reaffirmed the US government’s dedication to supporting the development of food safety systems that benefit all stakeholders, including consumers, producers, and regulators, and meet their needs and expectations.
She clarified that the Technical Working Groups (TWGs) were established to modernize Nigeria’s food safety regulations, align them with global standards, effectively address food safety issues, and foster the growth of a robust agricultural and food sector.
She said: “Over the last decade, the Nigerian government has implemented important changes to bolster food safety by examining and enhancing critical components of the national food safety control system.
“Harnessing the expertise of the TWGs aligns with the core mission of World Food Safety Day, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation in safeguarding food and feed safety.
“As we commemorate this global initiative, the launch of these TWGs underscores Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring safe and reliable access to food across Nigeria.”
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