FOOD FOR THOUGHT: The Economic and Health Imperative of Food Safety in Nigeria

Perspectives with Dr. Iyke Ezeugo

Hippocrates’ timeless aphorism, “Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food,” reverberates through the ages, reminding us of the intrinsic link between nutrition and well-being. This statement forms the bedrock of nutritional medicine, a holistic approach that sees food as more than sustenance—it is a cornerstone of health and vitality. In antiquity, the wisdom of using food to heal was paramount, a principle that finds renewed relevance today as we increasingly understand the role of diet in preventing disease, healing and fostering long-term well-being.

Yet, as we navigate the complexities of the modern food landscape, one wonders if Hippocrates would still champion these words in a world riddled with genetically modified organisms, harmful chemicals, and unsafe food practices. Nowhere is this dissonance more evident than in Nigeria, where food safety often takes a backseat to the immediate challenge of feeding a growing, hungry population. While the urgency of satisfying hunger dominates, the need to scrutinize food quality for safety and public health remains dangerously under prioritized.

In Nigeria, food safety is not just a health issue—it is an economic imperative. Foodborne illnesses, compounded by poor regulatory oversight, carry economic consequences that include lost productivity, missed trade opportunities, and widespread health problems. The unchecked proliferation of genetically modified foods and contaminated produce, GMOs often sold without labels, leaves consumers vulnerable to adverse health effects. The connection between food safety and national prosperity is undeniable: healthy citizens drive a stronger economy, while regulated agricultural practices pave the way for sustainable economic growth and global competitiveness.

This article, the sixth in a series on agriculture, delves into the economic and health imperatives of food safety in Nigeria. It recognizes the challenges posed by rising food costs and unwholesome products, and critiques the government’s reliance on quick fixes like food importation rather than fostering sustainable solutions. By advocating for the revitalization of local agriculture, promotion of organic farming, and stronger food safety regulations, the piece emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s approach to food production and regulation. The case is made for a more dedicated focus on institutions like NAFDAC, while calling for the creation of a specialized body empowered to oversee organic agriculture and ensure the safety of the food consumed by Nigerians and from Nigeria.

As we explore the intricate web of challenges and opportunities within Nigeria’s food safety landscape, this article offers a fresh perspective on how prioritizing safe, healthy food can lead to stronger economic growth and a more prosperous future for all.

Understanding the Hippocrates Aphorism

Hippocrates’ famous saying, “Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food,” underscores his belief that nutrition is central to maintaining health and preventing illness. In the time of this ancient Roman physician, around 400 BCE, this statement suggested that food should serve as the body’s “first line of defense” against disease. He viewed the right foods as capable of healing and maintaining the body’s natural balance, much like medicine, and even better. Below are the ideas behind this philosophy of his:

– Medicine vs. Food: Medicine is taken with care and precision, under expert guidance, with an understanding of its source and effects. Food, by contrast, is often consumed casually, without much thought to its source, composition, processes or long-term health impacts. Hippocrates urges us to treat food with the same reverence we give medicine, aware of its profound effect on the body.

– Purposeful Consumption: The aphorism encourages us to eat with intention, recognizing that wholesome food, when chosen wisely, can prevent illness and promote well-being. The right foods maintain balance and support health; the wrong foods can cause serious and prolonged harm.

In summary, Hippocrates’ words challenge us to view food as essential to health, consumed with the same care and respect we give medicine. Without adulteration, contamination or careless and experimental manipulations of its natural formation, food has the power to prevent illness and maintain the body’s balance.

The Economic Imperative of Food Safety.

Food safety is not just about protecting consumers from illness or immediate discomfort; *it is a strategic investment with the potential to transform Nigeria’s economy.* Agriculture is vital to the nation’s GDP, public health, and economic productivity. Ensuring food safety enhances productivity, reduces waste, and fosters a healthier population, thus opening up new trade opportunities in addition to the following:

1. Boosting Consumer Confidence: Safe food increases consumer confidence, driving economic growth. In Nigeria’s expanding middle class and public awareness, demand for quality food is rising. By investing in food safety, the country can build a conducive environment for businesses and improve the standard of living and life expectancy.

2. Enhancing Export Opportunities: International markets demand stringent food safety standards. Countries like Chile and Denmark have leveraged strong food safety laws to boost agricultural exports. Nigeria can follow suit by aligning its regulations with global standards.

3. Attracting Foreign Investment: A robust food safety system could make Nigeria more attractive to foreign investors. This would bring capital, technology, and expertise, modernizing agriculture and creating sustainable jobs.

Public Health and the Cost of Neglect

The economic burden of foodborne illnesses in Nigeria is significanyt, costing the country an estimated N500 billion annually. According to WHO, unsafe food causes 600 million cases of foodborne diseases globally each year, with developing nations like Nigeria bearing the brunt. Marcus Aurelius’ timeless observation, *“Health is wealth,”* remains profoundly relevant today.

Gaps in Nigeria’s Food Safety Framework: The Role of NAFDAC

While National Agency for Food and Drug Administration (NAFDAC) has played a key role in regulating the food and drug sectors, its effectiveness in ensuring food safety is hindered by several challenges:

1. Broad Mandates: NAFDAC’s wide scope dilutes its focus on food safety, stretching its capacity thin across the vast food supply chain.

2. Weak Enforcement: Despite existing regulations, enforcement remains a challenge, leaving significant gaps that expose consumers to unsafe food.

3. Focus on GMOs Over Organic Practices*: NAFDAC and National Biotechnology Management Agency (NBMA) have been criticized for prioritizing GMOs, often seen as catering to foreign corporate interests rather than promoting organic farming and local health.

NAFDAC’s Delayed Ban on Toxic Pesticide: A Risky Gamble with Public Health

NAFDAC’s regulatory inaction regarding the delayed ban on chlorpyrifos is a glaring example of the agency’s laxity in safeguarding Nigeria’s food sector. Chlorpyrifos, a pesticide proven to have harmful effects on human health, animals, and the environment, has already been banned in several regions, including the European Union. Yet, despite acknowledging these dangers, NAFDAC has opted for a phased ban, raising serious concerns about its commitment to public health. If the risks are as grave as admitted, why not enforce an immediate ban?

By engaging stakeholders and adopting a delayed approach, NAFDAC undermines the urgency required to address such pressing health concerns. The delay exposes the population to prolonged risks, especially when there is credible evidence of the dangers posed by the pesticide. A regulatory body tasked with protecting national well-being should prioritize swift and decisive action, not a gradual phase-out that leaves room for toxic substances to persist in food and farming practices.

Decisions concerning public health should be grounded in an uncompromising commitment to safety. NAFDAC’s delayed action reveals a disturbing gap between identifying health hazards and taking the necessary steps to mitigate them, raising doubts about the agency’s priorities and its dedication to protecting Nigerians. One will wonder if there is a powerful or influential individual or group that the ban postponement is meant to favour against the populace: probably to allow them sell out their stockpiles to unsuspecting Nigerians and recoup their investment within the ban postponement window.

Chlorpyrifos: The Toxic Pesticide in Question

Chlorpyrifos, used primarily in agriculture to control pests on crops like maize, cotton, rice, and citrus fruits, comes in liquid, granular, and powder forms. While it is effective in controlling insects such as termites, mosquitoes, and ants, its impact on humans is dangerous, especially to children’s brain development, respiratory systems, and overall well-being. It has also been linked to cancer, posing risks not only to humans but also to animals, beneficial insects, and the broader environment.

Despite its ban in many parts of the world, including Europe, chlorpyrifos continues to be produced by major agrochemical companies, such as Dow AgroSciences (now Corteva Agriscience), as well as smaller regional manufacturers. In Nigeria, the pesticide is imported from these global manufacturers, with its distribution continuing largely unchecked due to inadequate regulatory enforcement and the appeal of its lower cost compared to safer alternatives.

The persistent use of chlorpyrifos in Nigeria underscores serious regulatory failures, as the harmful pesticide remains readily available despite mounting local and international concerns. Without stricter regulations and immediate action from agencies like NAFDAC, public health will continue to be jeopardized. But, this is sure not possible with NAFDAC broad mandate and regulatory laxties. What we see playing out here is the same that is played openly and behind the scenes by all the national agencies meant to examine, regulate and control adoption of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in food.

A Call for Action: A New and Effective Approach

A more focused institution is needed to champion organic agriculture and ensure food safety. This new body would address the gaps left by NAFDAC’s broad mandate and it’s regulatory lax in this all important area. The benefits will include:

1. Narrow Focus: A dedicated agency focusing on organic farming and Food Safety would better serve Nigeria’s needs, providing tailored expertise for the nation’s unique agricultural landscape.

2. International Support: This institution could align Nigeria with global trends in organic agriculture, attracting international funding and support.

3. Public Health & Economic Benefits: Organic farming leads to safer, healthier food, creating economic opportunities through exports, job creation, and improved food security.

A Unified Approach to Food Safety

Ensuring food safety is a shared responsibility, requiring coordinated efforts across individuals, farmers, businesses, and government. The government must lead by establishing a dedicated institution focused on organic agriculture and food safety. Investing in food safety today is an investment in a healthier, wealthier Nigeria tomorrow.

Dr. Iyke Ezeugo is a forensic researcher, social impact expert, and satirist, using his perspectives and parodies to challenge the status quo and inspire fresh discussions on public affairs.