World Food Day: CAFSANI Seeks Collective Action to Improve Food Safety!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

As the world marks World Food Day 2025, the Consumer Advocacy for Food Safety and Nutrition Initiative (CAFSANI) has urged stakeholders across Nigeria to unite in addressing food safety challenges, stressing that access to safe, nutritious, and sustainable food is a shared responsibility.

What We Know:

• CAFSANI made the call during a media briefing in Abuja to commemorate the October 16 event themed: “Water is Life, Water is Food. Leave No One Behind.”
• The group emphasized that unsafe food contributes to malnutrition, disease outbreaks, and stunted growth in children.
• Stakeholders were urged to strengthen food monitoring systems, invest in hygiene education, and enforce stricter food regulations.

Statements:

• CAFSANI Director-General, Dr. James Okojie, said:
  “Food safety is a public health concern. We cannot address nutrition or hunger without tackling the risks in our food supply chain.”

Why It Matters:

• Nigeria continues to face high rates of foodborne illnesses and malnutrition.
• Ensuring food safety is essential for public health, economic productivity, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Citations:

1. CAFSANI World Food Day Statement – Oct. 2025
2. FAO World Food Day Campaign – www.fao.org/world-food-day
3. Federal Ministry of Health – www.health.gov.ng

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