The National Agency for Food Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a stern warning to bakers and table water producers in Nasarawa State regarding unwholesome practices, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to quality standards. This cautionary message was conveyed by Francis Ononiwu, the agency’s North-Central Director, during a stakeholders’ meeting with Master Bakers and the Association of Table Water Producers of Nigeria held in Lafia.

Ononiwu highlighted the purpose of the engagement as a strategic effort by NAFDAC to reconnect with stakeholders and remind them of the essential requirements needed to ensure the quality of their products. He underscored the importance of food and water for the population, asserting that the agency is committed to ensuring that the public has access to safe and healthy bread and water.

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“Bread is a staple in many Nigerian households, which makes it imperative to uphold its quality standards,” Ononiwu stated. He urged producers to maintain high-quality products throughout their production processes, from sourcing raw materials to packaging. He emphasized that compromising any stage of production can lead to substandard outcomes.

The director reaffirmed NAFDAC’s dedication to protecting public health, as aligned with the agency’s guiding principles. He noted that every manufacturer of regulated products is required to renew their registration within the designated timeframe to avoid sanctions. “Routine inspections will continue, and those who fail to renew their registration or breach operational guidelines will face consequences, including the potential shutdown or sealing of their facilities,” he warned.

Matthew Olawale, the Nasarawa State Coordinator of NAFDAC, reiterated the importance of the forum, stating it serves as a platform for stakeholders to voice their challenges and improve relations with regulators for the benefit of society. He encouraged bakers and water producers to ensure their registration documents are up to date and to refrain from violating the agency’s guidelines.

Alfred Alogala, former Chairman of the Association of Table Water Producers (ATWAP) in Nasarawa, commended NAFDAC for this initiative, expressing hope that it would foster adherence to quality standards. He urged members to maintain practices that ensure their food and water products are safe and free from causing infections or diseases among consumers.