World Food Safety Day 2026: SoTLAN Calls for Stronger Science-Based Measures to Safeguard Nigerians

The Society of Testing Laboratory Analysts of Nigeria (SoTLAN) has called for stronger science-driven food safety interventions, stricter regulatory compliance, and increased investment in laboratory systems to tackle the persistent burden of foodborne diseases in Nigeria.

In a statement signed by its President, Mr. Bolawa Gbolahan, to mark World Food Safety Day 2026, the Society said unsafe food continues to pose a significant public health and economic challenge, affecting millions of Nigerians annually through microbial contamination, poor food handling practices, chemical adulteration, and weak adherence to food safety standards.

According to the Society, this year’s observance provides an opportunity to move beyond awareness campaigns and focus on practical, evidence-based solutions that can protect public health, strengthen food systems, and boost consumer confidence across the country.

SoTLAN noted that food contamination risks occur at multiple stages of the food value chain, including agricultural production, processing, transportation, storage, retail distribution, and household consumption. It stressed that addressing these risks requires coordinated action among regulators, food producers, laboratory professionals, vendors, policymakers, and consumers.

The Society expressed concern over the continued presence of aflatoxins in staple foods such as maize, groundnuts, and other agricultural commodities. It warned that these naturally occurring toxins have been linked to chronic health conditions, including liver disease and impaired growth in children, while also reducing agricultural productivity and limiting export opportunities.

Gbolahan also raised concerns about the misuse of hazardous chemicals in food preservation and storage, as well as the illegal application of pesticides and other harmful substances in food handling. He said such practices pose serious health risks to consumers and undermine national food safety efforts.

The Society further emphasized the need to integrate small-scale food vendors, roadside food operators, and micro-caterers into Nigeria’s food safety framework, noting that they serve millions of Nigerians daily and are critical stakeholders in achieving safer food outcomes nationwide.

Among the measures recommended by SoTLAN are sourcing ingredients from reputable suppliers, maintaining proper hygiene standards, ensuring access to clean water, conducting routine medical screenings for food handlers, and participating in compliance programmes organized by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

Speaking on the role of science in food safety management, Gbolahan said food safety must remain a national priority because of its direct impact on public health, economic growth, and consumer confidence.

“Food safety is not merely a regulatory obligation. It is a public health imperative, an economic necessity, and a national development priority. As Public Analysts and laboratory professionals, we stand at the frontline of protecting consumers through scientific evidence, accurate testing, and professional integrity,” he said.

He explained that Public Analysts, who are licensed professionals under the Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN), provide critical scientific evidence for regulatory decisions, food safety investigations, product certification, export validation, and enforcement actions.

According to him, laboratory professionals play a crucial role in detecting aflatoxins, pesticide residues, heavy metals, adulterants, and other contaminants that threaten food quality and public health. 

Through laboratory testing and analytical verification, they help identify contaminants, detect food fraud, monitor compliance, and support consumer protection initiatives.

The Society maintained that improving laboratory infrastructure and strengthening the capacity of Public Analysts would enhance consumer confidence, facilitate regulatory compliance, and improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and international agricultural markets.

SoTLAN also highlighted its partnership with IPAN in advancing national food safety objectives. While IPAN serves as the statutory professional body responsible for regulating and licensing Public Analysts, 

SoTLAN functions as a professional association promoting quality assurance, laboratory best practices, professional development, and evidence-based solutions to national challenges.

As the world commemorates World Food Safety Day 2026, the Society reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote safe food, protect consumers, and strengthen Nigeria’s food safety system through science, professionalism, and effective regulation.

The Society called on government agencies, industry stakeholders, development partners, food business operators, and consumers to work together in translating scientific knowledge into practical actions that ensure safe food for all Nigerians.

World Food Safety Day is observed annually on June 7 to raise awareness and inspire action aimed at preventing, detecting, and managing foodborne risks. The global observance is coordinated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

Oyo Honours Climate Partners, Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainable Environment

The Oyo State Government has honoured individuals, organisations  and development partners for their contributions to climate action, environmental sustainability and biodiversity preservation across the state.

The recognition which  formed part of the activities marking the 2026 World Environment Day celebration  was  to appreciate  stakeholders whose support has strengthened the state’s drive towards a climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable future.

Speaking at the event held at the Ibadan Business School, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, said the awards were instituted to acknowledge partners who have consistently supported government initiatives in climate change mitigation, environmental protection, afforestation and sustainable development.

He noted that addressing climate change requires collective action from government, private organisations, civil society groups and residents.

He  reiterated the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to policies and programmes that promote environmental sustainability, climate resilience and responsible natural resource management. He added that the government would continue to strengthen partnerships that support climate-smart solutions for the benefit of present and future generations.

As part of the celebration, the state government flagged off the planting of one million trees across Oyo State to enhance carbon sequestration, combat land degradation and improve biodiversity.

The Commissioner also commissioned a newly constructed public toilet facility at Ojoo, Ibadan, as part of efforts to curb open defecation, improve public hygiene and promote a cleaner environment.

In addition, 250 uniforms were distributed to environmental sanitation personnel to enhance their operations in maintaining cleanliness across the state.

Hon. Aderinto commended all award recipients and stakeholders for their commitment to environmental sustainability and urged residents to adopt responsible practices that support the state’s environmental goals.

The event was attended by government officials, environmental advocates, development partners, community leaders and other stakeholders.

OYSG Charges Civil Servants to Upskill Beyond Basic Training

Civil servants in Oyo State have been charged to seek knowledge beyond their present human capacity training to remain relevant in office, as the state government organized a one-day training workshop for 85 workers on a series of capacity-building sessions. 

The workshops comprised four groups of participants, including auditors, account officers, secretaries, and train-the-trainers, drawn from 25 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

The Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Professor Abdulwaheed Saliu Adelabu, made this charge in an interview with journalists shortly after declaring the workshop open, at Simeon Adebo Staff Development Center, Secretariat. He encouraged participants to “learn to earn” in order to increase their source of income.

The Commissioner emphasized that civil servants need to undergo more training and acquire additional skills that will enhance their efficiencies and responsibilities at the state level.

According to him, the government, through the Simeon Adebo Staff Development Center, is not relenting in ensuring that all cadres in the service are trained; both the academic and non-academic staff are working to sustain the legacy of Simeon Adebo.

Addressing the economic situation in the country, Professor Adelabu assured that the welfare of workers remains a priority for the state Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde. He noted that the economic hardship is not peculiar to Oyo State alone and that the government has been doing its best to cushion the effects.

“A couple of years back, it was only in Oyo State that we had an initiative called Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER). Also, there is a fuel subsidy allowance of N10,000 for each worker to ease transportation burden, as well as buses to convey them to and from different location,” he said.

He added that based on the economic indices, Oyo State is among the three best states in Nigeria in terms of workers’ welfare.

In his remark, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Establishments and Training, Alhaji Alade Bello, who was represented by the Director of Pension and Gratuity, Mr. Olufemi Ogungbile, encouraged participants to listen with rapt attention, noting that competence must be involved; otherwise, it will expire. 

He explained that capacity building is not about the number of years spent in service but about continuous updating. 

He added that knowledge acquired for competence yesterday may not be sufficient to address the present challenge, which is why regular updates are necessary.

The Executive Secretary, Simeon Adebo Staff Development Center, Mrs. Stella Okedum, in her welcome address, stated that given where the world is heading, it is no longer business as usual. She assured that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will not take the position of anyone who continues to learn.

Oyo Govt Expresses Concern Over WAEC Delays In The Conduct Of Year 2026 Examination

The Oyo State Government has expressed deep concern and sympathy for students, parents, and guardians affected by the delays experienced during the ongoing 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, conveyed the government's displeasure over the avoidable stress, anxiety, and risks to which candidates have been exposed as a result of the late commencement of some examination papers, contrary to the approved WAEC timetable.

According to the Commissioner, reports received and subsequently verified indicated that examination materials for papers scheduled on Thursday, June 4, 2026, did not arrive at several examination centres across Oyo State at the stipulated time.

Specifically, Government (Objective) and Agricultural Science (Practical) question papers reportedly did not reach many centres until about 6:30 p.m., making it difficult for candidates to sit for the examinations as scheduled and exposing them to unnecessary hardship.

Hon. Olayiwola further revealed that as of 8:11 p.m., some examination centres in Ogbomoso and Saki were still conducting the Government (Objective) paper, while the Agricultural Science Practical examination, which was scheduled to follow, had yet to commence.

The Commissioner also noted that a similar challenge occurred on June 3, 2026, when Mathematics (Objective) question papers were reportedly supplied in insufficient quantities to several centres, resulting in delays that extended examination activities late into the night.

He disclosed that officials of the Ministry contacted the WAEC Zonal Coordinator, who attributed the delays to logistical challenges.

While emphasizing that WAEC is an international examination body beyond the direct control of the Oyo State Government, Hon. Olayiwola appealed to the examination body to take proactive measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.

The Oyo State Government therefore urges WAEC to consider rescheduling of any examination paper that cannot be delivered to centres on or before 4:00 p.m. on the day of the examination. This, according to the Commissioner, will help protect candidates from undue stress, safeguard their well-being, and prevent unnecessary anxiety among parents, guardians, and other stakeholders.

The government remains committed to the welfare, safety, and academic success of all students in the state and will continue to engage relevant stakeholders to ensure conducive conditions for learning and assessment.

NUJIC Chairman Congratulates Ajibike on Appointment as BOTAVED Executive Secretary

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Information Chapel (NUJIC), Oyo State, Comrade.Fasasi  Ismail, has congratulated Mr. Babatunde Ajibike on his appointment as the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Board for Technical and Vocational Education (BOTAVED).

In a congratulatory message made available to journalists,on Thursday, Comrade Fasasi described Ajibike's appointment as a well-deserved recognition of his dedication, competence, and commitment to public service.

According to him, Ajibike has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, professionalism, and a strong passion for the development of the state through his various assignments in the public sector.

The NUJIC Chairman expressed confidence in Ajibike's ability to provide the needed leadership that would further reposition BOTAVED for greater efficiency and improved service delivery in the technical and vocational education sector.

He noted that Ajibike's wealth of experience and administrative expertise would be invaluable in advancing the board's mandate of promoting technical and vocational education as a catalyst for economic growth and youth empowerment in Oyo State.

Fasasi on behalf all NUJIC Members also commended the Oyo State Government for finding Ajibike worthy of the appointment, describing the decision as placing a round peg in a round hole.

He urged the new Executive Secretary to remain focused, dedicated, and innovative in the discharge of his duties, while assuring him of the support and cooperation of stakeholders in achieving the objectives of the board.

The NUJIC Chairman and other members prayed for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for Ajibike as he assumed his new responsibilities and wished him a successful and impactful tenure at the helm of BOTAVED.

Feyisetan, your husband has gone mad again: Understanding Fayose’s insensitive take on Oyo abductions

By Babajide Alex Adetunji

With profound respect to the late Playwright, Ola Rotimi, whose literary works have remained a legacy decades after his death, the name of former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, should have been used as the main character in the play, Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again, instead of Major Lejoka Brown’s. Why? This is because the Afao-born politician does go into temporary insanity from time to time, losing a grip on reality.

While I know that Fayose is half-educated, half-literate and probably unlikely to have read the play, Fayose should be told that his behavioural patterns and tendencies have tilted more in the direction of an individual with a periodic psychiatric challenge. 

I may be wrong, but Mr Fayose does have a brain touch from time to time and I think it is time that his wife, a respectable and easy-going woman, had his brain checked, or better still, called him to order. If you disagree with me, you may be right to do so, but which normal person would go on live television to claim that the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State could have been orchestrated by the Oyo State Government? Which mentally-stable person would isolate the Oyo State incident from the scores of abductions and kidnappings that have enveloped the entire country just to score a cheap political point against the governor?

Within the last one month alone, over 100 Nigerians have been abducted across the country. In fact, on the same day that pupils and teachers were abducted in Ahoro Esinele and Yawota in Oriire Local Government, 50 children were kidnapped from the Mussa Central Primary School in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. Days later, in one of the series of attacks in Kwara State, 10 people were also kidnapped in Yashikira community of Baruten Local Government in Kwara State, while bandits were also said to have ransacked Ilesha-Baruba, Lafiagi, Ori Oke Ajaiye, Isanlu Isin also in Kwara State, killing and abducting Nigerians.

So, if Fayose could accuse Oyo State Government and, particularly, Governor Makinde of orchestrating the abductions in Oriire Local Government for political gain, who orchestrated the ones in Kwara, Borno, Kaduna, Niger and other states? No be madness be that? 

Though the politician in him made him say he might be wrong after making the insensitive allegation, or probably to avoid being sued for criminal defamation of character, his intentions were clear: he wanted to paint Makinde with a coal-tar to justify his pay for the month of May, I may be wrong (to use his own language). From the former governor’s actions and attacks against Makinde, he has sold himself out as a political contractor out to blackmail and/or destroy Makinde at all costs to feather the nests of either former Governor Nyesom Wike or President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

And, speaking of Wike, isn’t it time for the Department of State Security and all other security agencies to ask the former Rivers State Governor to explain what he meant by the statement that he would put fire into states where the governors dragged the PDP with him? The former governor, whose penchant for violence and aggression has never been hidden, dating back to his days as Chief of Staff to former Governor Rotimi Amaechi, should be explaining that indecorous statement. Wike promised to put fire into Oyo State and the state has begun to witness fire in a way it has never experienced before, with parents weeping over their abducted children, husbands and wives lamenting over their spouses, while fears of kidnapping continue to grow daily. 

Are these the fires Wike promised or there are more to come? Will President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ask his Minister to explain his roles in these fires or we will continue to deceive one another? What is the link between the promised fire and attempt by Fayose to distract the Oyo State Government and the security agencies working round the clock to rescue the abducted teachers and children? These are the questions the DSS should be asking Fayose, but no one seems to care about the clue he dropped on live television. 

For one, all Nigerians know the communion between Wike and Fayose on the one hand and between Fayose and Tinubu on the other; if that individual has come out to frivolously accuse a state government of orchestrating abductions, then someone should ask him for more information.

 Though the Oyo State Governor has said that Fayose deserves pity; I beg to disagree. What the former governor deserves is intensive grilling from security agencies so that he can tell the world what he knows about the Oriire abductions and the others happening across the country. Since he knows who might have orchestrated the ones in Oyo, he would know who is behind the nationwide siege and attacks on Nigerians, too. 

If he does not provide the answers, then my earlier statement about his madness will become unassailable. Then, we can all say; truly, Ekiti’s former governor has gone mad again!

Adetunji writes from Jankata, Ibadan.

PLANTER OF CAC VICTORY CENTRE AkINGBADE NEW GBAGI IBADAN PROPHET STEPHEN OLUWATOYIN AJAYI CALLS FOR CONCERTED PRAYERS TO CURB RAMPANT KID NAPPING BANDITRY AND POLITICAL VIOLENCE

PLANTER OF CAC VICTORY CENTRE AkINGBADE NEW GBAGI  IBADAN PROPHET  STEPHEN  OLUWATOYIN  AJAYI CALLS FOR CONCERTED PRAYERS  TO CURB  RAMPANT  KID NAPPING BANDITRY  AND  POLITICAL VIOLENCE

The Cleric stated this in Ibadan Oyo State Capital in a chat with newsmen. 

Pastor Dr. Stephen AJAYI said God allowed what is currently happening as punishment for sins and unrighteousness on the part of the people.

While noting that Nigeria belongs to God , he cautioned average Nigerian against  wallowing in sins and stop shedding innocent bloods for the country to move forward. 

The DCC Superintendent in  who said Nigeria is blessed with vast human and natural  resources expressed the belief that the country would be great again only when Nigerians move closer to God, love one another and shelve our iniquities . 

The Cleric equally called on local , State and Federal Government to declared   three days for national fasting and prayer to ask for favour and mercy at this critical stage  in the overall interest of our dear nation.

The man of God  warned those who are killing fellow human beings for rituals that  innocent blood they have shed are asking for revenge and they must desist henceforth to avoid the wrath of God.

Prophet Dr . Stephen OLUWATOYIN  Ajayi  called on Christians to be spirit filled and do the will of God  so that they will be exemplary character for those who are yet to surrender their lives for Jesus Christ in this end time.

He advised Nigerians to be security conscious  and avoid late night outings  in a time like this to avoid victims of kidnappings and BANDITRY.

He prayed God to intervene in the safe return of the teachers and students   in the captivity of kidnappers in Oriire Local Government of  Oyo State.

The  CAC DCC Superintendent  called for a coordinated  rescue mission by all security agencies  to ensure the return of the kidnapping victims  in no distant time.

He prayed God to heal the nation and allow peace to reign for Nigeria to witness prosperity , abundance , economic stability and political tranquility as 2027 general elections gather momentum .