Lagos State has reiterated its resolve to enhance food safety measures, urging food-related businesses to adhere strictly to established standards while encouraging consumers to remain alert about the safety of what they eat.
The renewed commitment was announced by the Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr Lanre Mojola, in a statement issued on Sunday to mark the 2026 World Food Safety Day, observed globally on June 7.
This year’s theme, “From Burdens to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere,” underscores the need to prevent foodborne illnesses and reinforce food safety practices throughout the entire food supply chain.
Mojola emphasized that food safety remains a major concern for public health, consumer welfare and economic stability, stressing that the Lagos State Government places high importance on ensuring residents have access to safe food.
“Food safety is not optional; it is a necessity. Every meal consumed by Lagosians should meet the highest standards of safety and hygiene,” he said.
As a leading commercial hub in Africa, Lagos depends on an extensive food supply system that includes manufacturers, processors, distributors, restaurants, hospitality operators and food vendors. According to Mojola, safeguarding food quality across this network requires the active participation of all stakeholders.
“Together, we can build a safer and healthier Lagos,” he added.
The commission stated that its food safety initiatives include regular inspections, safety audits and risk assessments carried out at restaurants, bakeries, supermarkets, shopping malls, hospitality facilities and other public establishments.
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It noted that the agency also oversees compliance with safety regulations, grants safety compliance certifications and takes corrective action whenever breaches are identified.
Mojola further disclosed that the commission has stepped up training and awareness programmes for food service providers and other stakeholders. These efforts focus on proper food handling, hygiene practices, storage standards, hazard prevention and consumer protection.
He added that the agency recently facilitated and supported capacity-building workshops for stakeholders within the food, hospitality and events industries to encourage science-based food safety practices and improve regulatory compliance.
The director-general reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to collaborating with industry operators and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen food safety frameworks and expand public awareness on food-related risks.
He also called on businesses, institutions and households to prioritise food safety and support measures aimed at minimising foodborne hazards.
“Safe food today for a healthier Lagos tomorrow,” Mojola said.