Amid a rising Tide of Malnutrition and Food-related Illnesses leading to Fatalities in Nigeria, the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), in collaboration with eHealth Africa and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), convened a Webinar to address the issue of Food Fortification in the Country’s Food Sector.
The Event, Titled ‘Impact of Food Fortification Compliance: A Case for Industrial Fortification,’ aimed to Foster advocacy for Food Fortification compliance, recognize ongoing efforts and formulate Actionable recommendations to promote Industrial Fortification.
Dr. Michael Ojo, the Country Director of the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), highlighted the Importance of this third-party Advocacy Partnership involving NESG, eHealth Africa, and CISLAC, with Technical support from GAIN.
The goal is to Advocate for compliance with Food Fortification, address the challenge of Micronutrient deficiency despite Nigeria’s abundant Agricultural Resources, and explore the socioeconomic implications of this Deficiency.
Dr. Ojo also acknowledged the Government’s Policy Initiatives promoting the Fortification of staple Foods.
Agencies such as the National Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and the Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Council (FCCPC) have been tasked with Enforcing Compliance and monitoring Producers to ensure Fortification Standards are met.
During the Panel Session, Penjani Mkambula, Global Programme Lead for Food Fortification at GAIN, emphasized the Positive Impact of Fortification over the years.
Fortification not only Helps reduce Micronutrient Deficiencies but has also contributed to the Reduction of certain Diseases and Medical conditions, such as the successful Reduction of Goitre through the Introduction of Iodized Salt.
