A bill to establish a National Institute for Organic Agriculture and Food Safety Research in the country has passed a second reading in the House of Representatives.
The bill sponsored by Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, Hon. Billy Osawaru, Hon. Esset Mark Udo, and Hon. Saba Ahmed Adam will shape and develop the safety of foods in our country.
Leading the debate on the bill, Ogah who is the lead sponsor said the establishment of the Institute will permit the conduction of in-depth Research on the impact of organic food consumption on public health, its outcomes in relation to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) especially in this critical period of hardship and lack of food given the government relaxation of the restriction on the importation of foodstuff into Nigeria.
According to him, when established, the Institute will provide crucial data to inform dietary recommendations and National health policies that will develop comprehensive educational and practical agricultural programs to empower the consumer with knowledge about the benefits of organic foods.
In addition, he said the Institute will provide grants, funds, and support to individuals, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and public and private entities conducting research in organic agriculture and food safety for a uniform and rapid coverage of the Nation.
The institute he said further will support and promote the development of sustainable organic agricultural practices and technologies to ensure the safety of organic food products for consumers by advancing research on the safety, quality, and traceability of organic foods and supporting research into the mitigation of risks and hazards associated with organic farming practices, such as pests and diseases management and foodborne Illnesses.
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He also said the institute will boost Organic Agriculture in Nigeria through the facilitation of research knowledge transfers and training for farmers, food producers, and other stakeholders in the organic agriculture sector in line with international best ‘ practices.
He argued that the establishment of the Institute is very necessary for agricultural development and food safety in Nigeria.
In accordance with the House rules of not subjecting establishment bills to debate, the bill was passed for a second reading without debate