By Sandra Michaels
The Chairman, House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Rep Chike Okafor, says food is law, security, economy and health, stressing the role of the legislature in ensuring food governance.
He spoke at the World Food Day briefing in Abuja, represented by the Clerk of the Committee, Millicent Agenti.
Rep. Okafor expressed concern that despite existing policies, Nigeria still records high levels of malnutrition, stunting and wasting due to lack of enforceable laws, noting that inflation has worsened food insecurity.
He said the Committee, created in December 2023, has facilitated Nutrition Committees in 32 State Assemblies, formed the National Legislative Network on Nutrition and Food Security, and regulate adulterated vegetable oils in open markets.
The Chairman further disclosed that the Nutritionists Registration Council Bill, has passed Second Reading with public hearing slated for October 20th, while the National Nutrition Bill is at advanced stage, adding that World Food Day is a call to oversight nutrition funds and protect local food systems.
