NAFDAC's Adeyeye Addresses Nigerians' Food Safety Ignorance

Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), expressed concerns about the ignorance of Nigerians regarding food safety regulations and the roles of agencies involved in this area. In an interview with BusinessDay TV, she highlighted that NAFDAC's regulatory responsibilities primarily cover processed and semi-processed foods, not fresh produce sold in markets.

Adeyeye clarified that while NAFDAC does not regulate fresh oranges or other agricultural products, it plays a crucial role in the safe use of pesticides, which it approves and regulates. She noted that NAFDAC collaborates with the Ministry of Agriculture to train farmers on pesticide application and harvesting timing.

Adeyeye pointed out the challenges posed by high illiteracy rates, which hinder farmers' understanding of pesticide instructions, leading to potential misuse. She acknowledged that while NAFDAC assists in educating farmers, the Ministry of Agriculture holds the primary responsibility for such training.