In a renewed initiative to safeguard public health and uphold regulatory standards, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has delivered a serious warning to vendors of frozen chicken, fish, and meat products in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The agency highlighted its strict zero-tolerance stance on the sale and distribution of unregistered and banned products, calling for full adherence to federal regulations.
At a one-day awareness event held for the Abuja Fish and Frozen Food Sellers Association at Kado Fish Market, Mr. Kenneth Azikiwe, the FCT Director of NAFDAC, emphasized the agency’s dedication to safeguarding food and regulated products in Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, Azikiwe highlighted that the event was designed to encourage proper storage and distribution practices among market operators.
Azikiwe explained that the purpose of this awareness effort is to promote proper storage and distribution methods in the market.
He emphasized that when food products are stored correctly, they help maintain the quality of the food processed with them prior to consumption.
“We are present at Kado Fish Market, the largest fish market in North-Central, to ensure that frozen chicken, fish, and meat are stored properly. This will ultimately allow us to provide high-quality and safe food for the consumers in the FCT.”
The agency additionally reminded traders that the Federal Government has prohibited the importation of frozen chicken, turkey, and catfish, encouraging sellers to support locally made products that are registered with NAFDAC.
Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed, the Chairman of the Fish and Frozen Food Sellers Association, expressed his members’ commitment to cooperate, saying,”We will fully adhere to NAFDAC’s directives and request a compassionate approach during the implementation process.”
“These establishments are operating without NAFDAC licenses, which is why we are here to eliminate all illegal products in order to protect consumer safety,” Nonye stated.
Mr. Azikiwe, supporting her statements, emphasized the agency’s commitment to eliminating poor production practices. “This is just the starting point. We will inspect other facilities to verify compliance, and those who break the rules will face severe consequences.”
NAFDAC has encouraged Nigerians to notify the agency of any suspected illegal manufacturing or distribution activities to help protect public health.
