Concerns Rise Over Meat Safety in Nigeria's Abattoirs

In Nigeria, growing concerns have emerged about the safety of meat consumed nationwide, particularly regarding sanitary conditions, hygiene, inspection, waste management, and meat distribution chains. Reports indicate that meat is often transported in open vans, tricycles, and motorcycles, violating global food safety standards that require meat to be kept at 4°C or below from slaughter to sale.

Major abattoirs, such as Oko-Oba in Lagos and others in Ogun State, process over 10,000 cows, 5,000 rams, and 10,000 goats daily, employing more than 30,000 people. Despite the industry's estimated annual turnover of N80 billion, public health concerns persist.

Former Senator Babafemi Ojudu shared a troubling observation of beef being transported in unsanitary conditions in Ibadan, where a spare tire was placed on top of the meat, exposing it to contaminants. Ojudu emphasized that such practices pose serious health risks, as consumers may unknowingly purchase contaminated meat.