The Federal Government is preparing to authenticate the updated National Policy on Food Safety and Quality along with its Implementation Plan for 2023, as stated by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, during a workshop in Abuja.
Pate, represented by his Special Adviser on Operations, Emmanuel Odu, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration among food safety stakeholders in Nigeria to discuss the modernization of the food safety system nationwide. The minister highlighted the forthcoming validation of the revised policy, emphasizing its focus on enhancing regulatory, enforcement, and data-gathering systems for increased effectiveness.
Additionally, the event will mark the launch of the National Integrated Guidelines for Foodborne Disease Surveillance and Response, providing a roadmap for integrated surveillance and response protocols. The Chief Executive Officer-Designate of NESG, Tayo Aduloju, emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to high food safety standards and the need for collaborative efforts to strengthen regulatory frameworks.
Aduloju highlighted the importance of efficient food and feed safety systems for economic growth, especially in light of Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential. The NESG also announced its Gender and Inclusion Summit in Abuja this month, focusing on advancing gender equality through the intersection of trade and health. The summit aims to inspire commitments and mobilize stakeholders for positive change.