The Rivers State Government has initiated a Task Force on Food Safety to enhance public health and safety.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Ministry of Agriculture, saw the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Engr. Victor Kii, emphasizes the critical role of the task force in ensuring the highest standards of food safety throughout the State.
Commissioner Kii underscored the collaborative effort required from stakeholders, including farmers, producers, distributors, retailers, and consumers, to develop and implement effective strategies.
The task force aims to identify and address potential risks associated with food consumption, thereby preventing food-borne illnesses.
Key objectives outlined for the task force include enhancing public awareness of food safety best practices and compiling comprehensive data on livestock trade and food production processes. Additionally, veterinarians will be stationed at all abattoirs/slaughterhouses to conduct thorough inspections, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
The task force will also monitor markets and frozen food companies to prevent the sale of processed meat from unauthorized sources.
Mr Kii reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening inspection and regulatory mechanisms at every stage of the food supply chain.
Membership of the task force comprises representatives from the Ministries of Agriculture, Health, Environment, and Justice, as well as various security agencies.
Kii expressed gratitude to Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara for his proactive leadership in establishing the Task Force on Food Safety.
The newly inaugurated task force is chaired by the Honorable Commissioner for Agriculture, with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture serving as Secretary. Other members include representatives from livestock, forestry, and fisheries departments, as well as law enforcement agencies and relevant industry associations.
In his closing remarks, Commissioner Kii emphasized the timeliness of the task force’s establishment amid prevailing challenges, affirming the government’s commitment to ensuring food safety for all citizens.
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