The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), in partnership with food sector experts, has reaffirmed the critical importance of food safety for public health and consumer protection.
This was the central theme of the third Food Safety Conference and Exhibition, held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, in Ikeja, under the theme “Food Safety: Science in Action.”
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Olugbemiga Aina, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, praised LASCOPA for its proactive stance in highlighting food safety issues.
He stated that food safety is a shared responsibility that spans the entire value chain and that the conference should be a recurring event to maintain public awareness and inform government policy.
According to Aina, the conference’s results will positively influence government policies and reshape stakeholders’ approaches to food handling and safety.
Afolabi Solebo, the General Manager of LASCOPA, echoed this sentiment, stressing that ensuring food safety requires the collective effort of regulators, producers, retailers, and consumers.
He warned that unsafe food not only poses health risks but also erodes consumer confidence and economic stability.
Umar Garbar, Chairman of the Kano State Consumer Protection Council, commended LASCOPA for continuing the initiative, noting that food safety is crucial to Lagos State’s vision of a healthy population and sustainable development.
He urged stakeholders to adopt global best practices, invest in food safety research, and strengthen enforcement to combat contamination and foodborne diseases.
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The conference featured presentations, panel discussions, and exhibitions showcasing innovative solutions for food safety.
It brought together a diverse group of participants, including policymakers, industry experts, food scientists, entrepreneurs, and consumer rights advocates, all working toward a safer food system.
