The staggering toll of unsafe food in Nigeria: A wake-up call for action
In a recent press briefing, the Nigerian government revealed a shocking reality: unsafe food is causing an annual death toll of over 53,000 and sickening nearly 50 million people across the country. This crisis, which disproportionately affects children under five, highlights a critical national health and development issue. The true cost of unsafe food extends beyond these grim statistics, impacting the cognitive, physical, and developmental potential of Nigeria's youth.
The Burden of Foodborne Diseases
Foodborne illnesses, particularly diarrhoeal diseases, are a leading cause of hospitalization, malnutrition, and mortality among Nigeria's youngest citizens. With over 40 million cases linked to pathogens like Salmonella and Escherichia coli, the problem is widespread. Additionally, chemical hazards, such as lead exposure from contaminated grains and spices, contribute to the loss of healthy lives. These figures underscore the urgent need to strengthen food safety systems across the entire value chain.
Progress and Challenges
Despite these challenges, Nigeria has made notable progress in building a stronger food safety system. The country's 2023 Joint External Evaluation showed measurable improvements, and its 2025 State Party Annual Report score surpassed the WHO target for low- and middle-income countries. Nigeria is now a leader in the region for detecting, reporting, and responding to foodborne disease events. However, the latest WHO estimates serve as a stark reminder that more needs to be done.
A Call to Action
The new WHO data is a clarion call for intensified action. Surveillance for heavy metals and chemical contaminants must be enhanced. Food safety practices in traditional and informal markets, where most Nigerians purchase their food, need improvement. Hygiene, water, and sanitation infrastructure must be strengthened, and food business operators must comply with national standards. Food safety is not just about preventing infections; it's about ensuring that the food we eat doesn't contribute to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases like hypertension, stroke, diabetes, and obesity.
The Role of Regulation and Collaboration
NAFDAC, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, recognizes the imperative of food safety as a public health, socioeconomic, and development issue. The agency is committed to reducing foodborne diseases through stronger regulation, surveillance, and stakeholder engagement. Safe food is central to achieving the country's nutrition and health goals, and addressing these challenges requires collaboration among government agencies, industry, researchers, development partners, and consumers.
Diet-Related Diseases and Regulatory Measures
Organizations like CAPPA (Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa) are advocating for stronger regulatory measures to address the growing burden of diet-related diseases. They argue that food safety extends beyond contamination concerns to include protection against products contributing to non-communicable diseases. Weak regulatory safeguards and aggressive marketing of unhealthy products are contributing to rising cases of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and other health issues. Public health policies must prioritize science and the public interest over industry profitability.
A Global Perspective
World Food Safety Day, observed annually, aims to raise awareness and inspire action to prevent and manage food-related risks. The 2026 edition marks a critical moment to reflect on the global impact of food safety. While traditional discussions focus on microbial contamination, public health experts are drawing attention to the role of unhealthy diets in driving non-communicable diseases. Nigeria's efforts to strengthen food safety governance through various initiatives are commendable, but there's still a long way to go. Health advocates continue to push for stronger nutrition-focused policies to address these pressing issues.
In my opinion, the statistics on foodborne illnesses and deaths in Nigeria are a stark reminder of the importance of food safety. It's not just about preventing immediate sickness; it's about safeguarding the future potential of an entire generation. The challenge is significant, but so is the collective capacity to address it. By strengthening regulatory measures, improving food safety practices, and fostering collaboration, Nigeria can work towards ensuring safer and healthier food for its citizens.
