The annual World Food Safety Day serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive and often overlooked issue of foodborne illnesses in Nigeria. While the statistics are alarming, they also highlight a critical juncture where proactive measures can significantly reduce the burden on public health and the economy. The Federal Government's recent revelations about the staggering impact of unsafe food on the nation's health are a call to action, urging us to reevaluate our approach to food safety and its broader implications. In my opinion, the true cost of unsafe food goes far beyond the immediate health consequences, touching upon the very fabric of our society and economy.
One of the most concerning aspects of the issue is the disproportionate impact on children. According to the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, children under five account for over 80% of the foodborne disease burden in Nigeria. This is particularly distressing, as it not only affects their immediate health but also has long-term implications for their cognitive, physical, and developmental potential. The loss of healthy life years due to foodborne diseases is a stark reminder of the need to prioritize food safety, especially in the context of Nigeria's growing population of young people.
The statistics also underscore the urgent need to strengthen food safety systems across the entire value chain. While the government has made notable progress, as evidenced by the 2023 Joint External Evaluation and the 2025 State Party Annual Report, there is still much to be done. The recent estimates by the World Health Organisation (WHO) highlight the global scale of the problem, with unsafe food causing over 866 million illnesses and 1.5 million deaths annually. This puts Nigeria's situation in perspective, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to food safety.
One of the key challenges highlighted by the minister is the increasing exposure to chemical contaminants. Lead exposure, for instance, is responsible for tens of thousands of healthy lives lost through contaminated grains, spices, and water sources. This raises a deeper question about the role of industrial practices and the need for stricter regulations to protect consumers. In my view, the focus on chemical hazards should be a wake-up call for industries and policymakers to reevaluate their practices and prioritize the health and safety of the population.
The connection between food safety and non-communicable diseases, such as hypertension, stroke, diabetes, and obesity, is another critical aspect that cannot be overlooked. The minister's emphasis on this link is a crucial step towards a more holistic approach to public health. By recognizing the role of food safety in preventing these diseases, we can begin to address the underlying causes and promote healthier food choices. This requires a multi-faceted approach involving food manufacturers, regulators, researchers, and consumers.
The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has rightly called for stronger regulatory measures to address the growing burden of diet-related diseases. The organization's argument that food safety should extend beyond contamination to include protection against unhealthy products is a compelling one. The recent passage of a bill to strengthen Nigeria's Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Tax regime is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done. In my opinion, the government should adopt national sodium reduction targets, implement front-of-pack warning labels, and strengthen restrictions on the marketing of unhealthy foods to children.
The 2026 World Food Safety Day theme, 'From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere,' is a powerful reminder of the need for collective action. It is not just about preventing food poisoning or reducing the burden of foodborne diseases; it is about ensuring that the food we eat supports our long-term health and well-being. By addressing the challenges of food safety, we can create a healthier and more sustainable future for Nigeria, one that prioritizes the health and prosperity of its citizens.
In conclusion, the issue of food safety in Nigeria is a complex and urgent one that requires a comprehensive and coordinated response. The government's efforts are a positive step, but more needs to be done to strengthen food safety systems and promote healthier food choices. By addressing the challenges of food safety, we can create a healthier and more sustainable future for Nigeria, one that prioritizes the health and prosperity of its citizens. Personally, I believe that the key to success lies in fostering stronger collaboration among government agencies, industry players, researchers, development partners, and consumers. Only through a collective effort can we truly transform the burden of foodborne illnesses into solutions for a safer and healthier future.
