17 June 2026, US: The Street Food Safety Initiative (SFSI) of the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST), Lagos Chapter, commemorated the 2026 World Food Safety Day under the theme, “From Burden to Solutions: Safe Food Everywhere.” The celebration featured a series of impactful programmes held from 4 June to 8 June 2026, which were aimed at promoting food safety awareness and reducing the burden of foodborne illnesses.
The activities commenced on 4 June 2026, with a Market Advocacy and Road Show at Ipodo Market, Lagos. The event brought together key stakeholders, partners, and government agencies, including the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Lagos State Safety Commission, Ministry of Health, Professional Association of Public Health Nurses of Nigeria (PAPHNON), Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Ministry of Environment, market leaders, and public relations representatives.
During the event, participants addressed critical food safety concerns and shared practical solutions for preventing foodborne illnesses. Key messages focused on personal hygiene, regular handwashing, proper waste disposal, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) by food vendors, and collaboration with relevant government agencies to ensure effective implementation of food safety policies. The SFSI team and its partners also engaged market vendors directly through a road show to promote food safety best practices. The event received media coverage from Silverbird Television (STV) and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
On 6 June 2026, SFSI representatives, Ifeoma Ugbo and Dr Gbenga Adewumi, participated in a radio programme on Radio One 103.5 FM, where they discussed the World Food Safety Day theme and emphasized the importance of ensuring safe food across all sectors of the food chain.
Later that day, at 19:00, SFSI hosted a webinar on the World Food Safety Day theme. Dr Sylvanus Ogbor served as the guest speaker, while Awesu Joseph anchored the session. The webinar provided participants with valuable insights into food safety challenges and practical solutions for achieving safer food systems.
As part of the celebration activities, SFSI also organized a podcast session on 7 June 2026, focusing on the burden of foodborne illnesses and practical solutions within the informal food sector. The session featured Rasaq Oke, FNIFST, and Dr Dolapo Odesanmi as guest speakers, while Ogunji Akinyele served as the moderator. Participants were encouraged to visit and subscribe to the SFSI Podcast YouTube channel to access the session and other educational content.
The Street Food Safety Initiative sincerely appreciates the NIFST Lagos Chapter, the Governance Team, all SFSI Champions, sponsors, partners, and stakeholders whose support and commitment contributed to the success of the 2026 World Food Safety Day celebration. Their collective efforts made the celebration memorable and further strengthened the shared commitment to ensuring safe food for everyone, everywhere.
Global Agriculture is an independent international media platform covering agri-business, policy, technology, and sustainability. For editorial collaborations, thought leadership, and strategic communications, write to pr@global-agriculture.com
