Reported by: Ijeoma .G | Edited by: Henry Owen
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has unveiled a comprehensive Strategy and Roadmap to eliminate trans-fatty acids (TFAs) from the Nigerian food supply, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health. The launch underscores the urgent need to tackle dietary risks associated with heart disease, stroke, and premature death.
In her keynote speech, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, highlighted Nigeria’s proactive measures in controlling industrially produced trans fats. She noted that the country has set regulatory limits of no more than 2 grams of TFA per 100 grams of total fat or oil. These initiatives earned global recognition in 2023 when the World Health Organization (WHO) named Nigeria one of only seven countries worldwide to adopt best-practice TFA elimination policies.
The newly launched roadmap outlines a phased approach targeting industry reformulation, strengthening laboratory capacity, monitoring compliance, public education, and cross-sector collaboration. Prof. Adeyeye emphasized that expanded laboratory capabilities now enable accurate analysis of TFAs in food products, a critical step toward full regulatory implementation.
The NAFDAC DG also called for collaborative efforts among government agencies, the food industry, civil society, and consumers to achieve WHO validation of Nigeria’s programme. “Eliminating industrially produced trans fats is possible, achievable, and urgent. With this roadmap, Nigeria is determined to protect the health of its citizens and secure a food supply free from the dangers of trans-fatty acids,” she affirmed.
Support for the initiative comes from international partners, including Resolve to Save Lives, WHO, and other stakeholders committed to improving dietary safety and nutrition standards nationwide. The roadmap is designed not only to reduce TFA consumption but also to encourage local food producers to adopt healthier alternatives, ensuring sustainable public health benefits.
Public health experts have lauded the move, noting that eliminating TFAs could prevent thousands of cardiovascular-related deaths annually while promoting overall wellness. As the roadmap is implemented, Nigerians are encouraged to be mindful of TFA content in packaged foods and support the government’s efforts to secure a healthier national diet.
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