The Federal Government established four technical working groups on food safety and released the updated National Policy on Food Safety and Quality on Friday.
This was done in Abuja as part of the celebrations for the 2024 World Food Safety Day, when the four inter-sectoral technical working groups were inaugurated by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the US Department of Agriculture, and other partners, according to PUNCH.
Prof. Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, stated that the TWGs would offer leadership and experience to promote strategic alliances, effective stakeholder communication, and capacity building.
He declared that the groups would enhance industry participation in national regulatory procedures and adherence to international food safety standards, as well as reinforce and harmonise Nigeria’s risk-based food safety systems and regulatory environment.
Pate stated that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare had authorised the formation of the four TWGs in January 2024. Pate was represented at the occasion by Daju Kachollom, the ministry’s permanent secretary.
He said, “The TWGs are focused on risk-based regulations, risk analysis in food and feed safety; food and sanitary and phytosanitary inspection; traceability and supporting technologies; education for all stakeholders and research.
“As we gather to mark the 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. In the face of daunting challenges, our resolve remains unshaken. Preparedness is not just a watchword but our shield against the unpredictable tides of adversity.”
He said that the National Policy on Food Safety and Quality and its implementation plan had been painstakingly amended by the FMHSW in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, all in the spirit of that.
Pate went on to say that the strategy tackles a number of important issues and is based on the One Health concept.
“It encompasses the principles of risk analysis, the issue of emerging contaminants within our food chain, and the establishment of an integrated foodborne disease surveillance and response system. Moreover, it sets forth benchmarks for the safe handling, marketing, and sale of food throughout our nation,” the minister stated.
