53,000 Nigerians Die Annually From Unsafe Food, FG Raises Alarm

The Federal Government has raised fresh concerns over the growing burden of foodborne diseases in Nigeria, revealing that unsafe food is responsible for nearly 50 million illnesses and more than 53,000 deaths annually across the country.

The disclosure was made by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Adekunle Salako, during a ministerial press briefing in Abuja to mark the 2026 World Food Safety Day.

Speaking at the event themed “From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere,” Salako described food safety as a critical public health challenge requiring urgent attention from government agencies, food producers, vendors and consumers.

According to the minister, updated estimates from the World Health Organization indicate that unsafe food continues to have devastating health and economic consequences for Nigeria.

He disclosed that children under the age of five account for more than 80 per cent of the disease burden associated with foodborne illnesses, making them the most vulnerable group affected by contaminated food.

“Nigeria records nearly 50 million foodborne illnesses every year, and unsafe food causes more than 53,000 deaths annually in our country,” Salako stated.

He warned that contaminated food not only threatens lives but also places enormous pressure on the healthcare system, reduces productivity and undermines national development efforts.

The minister stressed the need for stronger food safety regulations, improved monitoring systems and greater public awareness on proper food handling and hygiene practices.

He also called for enhanced collaboration among government institutions, food industry stakeholders and consumers to reduce the prevalence of food contamination and related diseases.

Salako noted that ensuring food safety is essential to achieving better health outcomes and improving the quality of life of Nigerians.

He urged citizens to adopt safe food practices, including proper storage, preparation and handling of food products, while encouraging food businesses to comply with established safety standards.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening food safety systems nationwide as part of broader efforts to protect public health and reduce preventable deaths linked to contaminated food.