BY JUDITH OBIANUA
THE Chairman, Delta State Local Government Service Commission, Hon. (DCN) Joseph Otirhue has emphasized the urgent need to leverage policies and technology-driven innovations to tackle food scarcity in Nigeria.
Otirhue made the call during the 2nd Regional Food Science and Technology Summit/Conference organized by the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST), Edo/Delta Chapter.
The event, held at Dennis Osadebay University Conference Hall, Asaba, with the theme: “Innovative Food Science and Technology: Driving Sustainable Growth and National Development” focused on promoting healthy nutrition, improved living standards and sustainable development.
Otirhue, who urged local governments in Edo, Delta, and across Nigeria to actively embrace agriculture and agro-allied ventures, stressed the importance of adopting technological innovations as a means to achieve food security and sustainable development.
He noted that the Delta State Local Government Service Commission was committed to enhancing the capacity of its workforce, particularly those in agro-allied roles.
According to him, the commission’s manpower development program was aligned with the objectives of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s ‘MORE Agenda’, which is focused on delivering greater benefits and democratic dividends to the people of Delta State.
Also speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor, Dennis Osadebay University, Prof. Ben Oghojafor (represented by Prof. Robert Dode), described food as central to human existence, influencing health, economy, the environment, and culture.
Prof. Dode stressed that in the face of global challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, population growth, and public health concerns, the advancement of food science and technology was not just desirable but essential.
“We gather here as academics, policymakers, students, and industry experts to shape the future of food systems. Together, we must utilize cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, and visionary policies to build a resilient food ecosystem,” he said.
Similarly, CEO of Soleta Foods Ltd., Dr. Sylvanus Ogbor, highlighted the need for preserving seasonal foods to guard against scarcity. He called for youth and women’s empowerment through training in local food processing and preservation methods.
Ogbor announced plans for an upcoming campaign aimed at promoting synergy among stakeholders. He also revealed that training programs for health officers, food vendors, and food safety officers are in the pipeline. “We must work together because teamwork makes the dream work,” he added.
In his remarks, the Delta State Coordinator Nigeria Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST), Edo/Delta chapter, Dr Abel Otache, reaffirmed the commitment of NIFST Edo/Delta Chapter to addressing the food crisis. He praised the resilience of the organization’s members and called on government officials, policymakers, and traditional rulers at all levels to support initiatives geared toward ending hunger.
“If we work in unity, we can overcome the food crisis,” he said, emphasizing the importance of a zero-tolerance approach to hunger.
Speaking with newsmen, one of the participants, Comrade Mrs. Jennifer Ofagbe, described the event as a major boost for food safety officers at the local government level, noting that it has provided renewed motivation and moral support for officers to intensify their efforts, particularly at the grassroots.
According to her, all food safety officers are returning to their respective establishments with a renewed mandate to address food scarcity and enforce stricter food safety standards.
Also speaking, the Chairman, Delta State Food Scientific Officers Association, Dtn Oyovwikigo Solomon, stated that with this conference, the food safety officers in the local government are ready to take the bull by the horn to ensure food safety for all in the local government level.
