BY EBI NIEKETIEN
As part of activities marking the 2025 National Environmental Sanitation Day (NESD), the Delta State Government has charged food vendors across the state to adopt strict hygiene and safety practices to protect public health and prevent foodborne illnesses.
The call was made by the Commissioner for Environment, Jamani Ejiro, during a Food Hygiene and Safety Training Programme organised by the Ministry of Environment for food vendors and handlers in the state, which was held in Asaba.
Speaking at the training, Jamani stressed that the initiative was designed to equip participants, comprising food vendors, inspectors, and other stakeholders, with essential knowledge of best practices in food safety and environmental health.
According to him, “This training is not just another workshop; it is a life-saving intervention. It is about protecting the people who rely daily on safe and nutritious food. It is about ensuring that our schools, homes, restaurants, markets, and public events do not become breeding grounds for disease.”
The Commissioner disclosed that with the rapid expansion of both formal and informal food markets across the state, there was an urgent need to strengthen food safety systems to prevent food contamination and associated illnesses.
The training, according to the Commissioner, covered a broad range of topics including personal hygiene, food preparation and storage, water sanitation, pest control, waste management, and compliance with both state and national food safety regulations.
While expressing gratitude to GIOn Kant Nigeria Limited and the team of facilitators for their expertise and dedication to advancing food hygiene standards in the state, Jamani reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening environmental health standards through collaborations with local councils, health authorities, and dedicated professionals.
He urged all participants to take full advantage of the training and commit to applying the knowledge gained to their daily operations, to build a safer and healthier environment for every Deltan.
