Lawmakers question need for new legislation, say existing agencies already regulate food safety and quality standards.
The House of Representatives has stepped down a bill seeking to prohibit the production, importation, distribution and sale of unbranded and unfortified edible oils in Nigeria following concerns raised by lawmakers during its second reading.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Chike Okafor, is aimed at protecting Nigerians from the health risks associated with consuming substandard edible oils and strengthening food fortification standards across the country.
Okafor said the bill would promote safer consumption practices, improve local oil production through collaboration with research institutions and prescribe penalties for offenders.
However, several lawmakers questioned the need for a new law, arguing that regulatory bodies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) already possess the statutory powers to regulate food quality and safety.
Others expressed concerns that the legislation could adversely affect small-scale palm oil producers and traders who may struggle to meet the proposed requirements.
Following the debate, the House resolved to step down the bill for further legislative consideration to address the issues raised by members.
The decision underscores lawmakers’ efforts to balance consumer protection with the interests of local producers while avoiding regulatory overlaps with existing government agencies.