Salako said this in Abuja on Monday at a news conference in commemoration of the 2026 World Food Safety Day themed “From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere.”

According to him, this theme is a powerful reminder that food safety is not merely a technical issue; it is a national development priority that affects the health, productivity, and wellbeing of every Nigerian.

The minister said few days ago, the World Health Organisation (WHO) released the updated global estimates of the burden of foodborne diseases for the period 2000 to 2021.

He added that globally, the updated modelling showed that unsafe food now causes annually an estimated 866 million cases.

“The updated modelling also shows that 1.5 million lives are lost annually. Africa continues to carry the highest per‑capita burden, and children under five bear a disproportionate share of the impact.

“For Nigeria, the new estimates confirm the scale of the challenge. Our national data show that Nigeria records nearly 50 million foodborne illnesses every year, and unsafe food causes more than 53,000 deaths annually in our country.

“Together, these illnesses and deaths result in a staggering 4.26 million years of healthy life lost to illness, disability, or early death,” the minister said.

According to him, most of this burden falls heavily on children under five, who account for more than 80 per cent of all foodborne disease burden in Nigeria.

“In practical terms, this means the true cost of unsafe food in Nigeria is not only measured in sickness and death, but also in the lost cognitive, physical, and developmental potential of our children.

“As the Lancet analysis notes, in most African countries, including Nigeria, the burden is so heavily concentrated among children that greater emphasis must be placed on preventing longterm human capital loss rather than focusing solely on adult productivity.

“The majority of this burden is driven by diarrhoeal pathogens. Over 40 million diarrhoeal illnesses in Nigeria are linked to foodborne pathogens, including Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, Shigella, and rotavirus.

“These infections continue to be a major cause of hospitalisation, malnutrition, and mortality among our youngest citizens,” Salako said.

According to him, food safety is not only about preventing infections; it is also about ensuring that the food we eat does not contribute to the growing burden of non communicable diseases.

“Nigeria faces a rising epidemic of hypertension, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, driven by unhealthy diets high in sodium, sugar, and trans fatty acids.

“We are responding decisively. Nigeria has developed the National Guidelines for Sodium Reduction aligned with WHO benchmarks.”

The minister said the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) had finalised the draft Sodium Reduction Regulation, which would ensure sodium limits in processed foods.

According to him, Nigeria is implementing the transfat elimination regulation, making us one of the first African countries to adopt WHO recommended limits for industrial trans fats.

“We are also working to strengthen the sugar sweetened beverage tax, which is a proven tool for reducing sugar consumption – we appreciate the effort of the National Assembly on this,” he said.

The minister said the government was also developing front-of-pack labelling (FOPL) to help consumers make more informed food choices.

“These actions demonstrate our commitment to ensuring that food in Nigeria is not only safe, but also healthy. But to truly move from burden to solutions, every sector must play its part.

“We must ensure the full implementation of the foodborne disease surveillance and response system, enforce sodium and TFA regulations, and invest in safer traditional markets.”

Salako said the industry must reformulate products to reduce salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, improve hygiene and traceability, and provide honest labelling.

He added that academia must generate evidence on emerging hazards and food consumption patterns.

In her remarks, the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, restated the agency’s commitment to reducing the burden of foodborne disease through science-based regulation, effective surveillance, strengthened food control system, and robust stakeholder engagement.

Adeyeye was represented by Mrs Era Edwards, the NAFDAC Director, Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Directorate.

The NAFDAC D-G said the agency’s efforts focused on ensuring that foods manufactured, imported, exported, distributed, advertised, sold and consumed in Nigeria met the acceptable standards of safety and quality.

“We reaffirm our commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s food safety system and ensure that safe, wholesome, nutritious, and quality food remains accessible to all.

“We recognise World Food Safety Day as an added opportunity to situate food safety as a significant issue of public health concern especially in the light of safe, wholesome food being important for boosting immunity and improving the body’s natural defense in fighting diseases.

“Where food is unsafe, our nutritional goals cannot be achieved. The challenge before us is significant, but so too is our collective capacity to address it through evidence-based policies, effective regulation, responsible industry practices, and sustained public awareness.

“At NAFDAC, we remain resolute in our unwavering commitment to playing our role in strengthening the national food safety system, upholding standards and regulations, and promoting best practices within industry and across society to assure a safe food supply.”

Also speaking, Dr Paval Ursu, the Country Representative of WHO, Nigeria, commended the Federal Government for its ongoing efforts to strengthen food safety through policies, regulatory frameworks and partnerships.

Ursu, who was represented by Dr Pindar Wakawa, Technical Officer for Nutrition and Food Supply, WHO, said the 2026 World Food Safety Day themed “From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere” called for urgent, coordinated and sustained action.

“This year’s theme, From Burden to Solution, Safe Food Everywhere calls for a decisive shift from understanding the problem of unsafe food to implementing practical, sustainable solutions that protect human health.

“The theme reminds us that generating evidence is only the first step. We must move from data to action, from awareness to implementation, and from burden to solutions.

“Safe food is not a luxury. It is a fundamental human right and cornerstone of health, nutrition and economic productivity,” the WHO country representative said.

According to him, ensuring safe food everywhere is essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and improving the well-being of all Nigerians.

“The encouraging message from the evidence released from the latest global estimates is that most food-borne diseases are preventable.

“This calls for urgent, coordinated and sustained action. The new estimates give Nigeria something we have not had before, clear, country-specific evidence.

“The opportunity now is to act decisively, especially to protect children, strengthen our food system and address emerging risks like chemical contamination.”

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The council said this in a statement issued on Monday by its Public Affairs Department, signed by Mrs Moyosola Adesina, Head of Public Affairs, WAEC, Yaba.

WAEC said reports revealed instances where candidates were compelled to pay money under various pretexts, including script transportation, welfare packages and administrative fees.

The council also expressed concern over schools demanding payment for KAPEK calculators, noting that the materials were supplied free of charge to candidates nationwide.

According to WAEC, such practices undermine the credibility of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination and threaten public confidence in educational assessments.

The council directed proprietors, principals, supervisors and invigilators to desist immediately from collecting money from candidates or parents on behalf of examination officials.

It urged the public to report extortion attempts to designated Zonal Coordinators, Branch Controllers or through official communication channels provided nationwide.

The council stressed that candidates must not be subjected to harassment, intimidation or coercion before, during or after examinations.

“Immediate reports of any extortion attempt should be made to the Zonal Coordinator or Branch Controller, or via publicaffairs@waec.org.ng and hnowaeclagos@yahoo.co.uk.

“No harassment or intimidation of candidates in any form will be tolerated,” it stated.

WAEC warned that offenders risked severe sanctions, including derecognition, blacklisting, prosecution and referral to relevant authorities, while reaffirming its commitment to examination integrity.

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The president made the declaration on Monday in a message of appreciation to members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

He commended their courage, sacrifice and commitment to safeguarding the country.

Tinubu said terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other violent groups do not represent the values of Nigerians and would not be allowed to undermine the nation’s peace, unity and progress.

He paid tribute to military personnel serving in forests, along highways, in creeks, at forward operating bases and across difficult terrains, noting that their efforts enable millions of Nigerians to go about their daily lives in safety.

“This fight has not been easy. It has come with pain, pressure and sacrifice. But your courage has remained firm.

“Your service is acknowledged. Your sacrifice is honoured.

“Your country does not take you for granted,” the president said.

He acknowledged the sacrifices of families of security personnel, many of whom endure long periods of separation and uncertainty in support of loved ones serving on the front lines.

The president paid special tribute to security personnel who lost their lives in the defence of the country, describing them as heroes whose sacrifices continue to protect communities and preserve national stability.

“We honour those who have paid the supreme price in defence of our country.

“Their courage lives on in rescued communities, protected families and the survival of the nation they served,” he said.

Tinubu stressed that the fight against terrorism requires the support of all citizens and urged Nigerians to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information.

“The fight against terror is not only a military operation. It is a national duty. Citizens must support our security forces by providing timely, useful information.

“When you see something, say something. When you know something, report it,” he said.

The president assured Nigerians that the government would remain resolute in confronting security threats across the country.

“Nigeria will not surrender to fear. We will not allow terrorists, bandits, kidnappers or violent extremists to define who we are as a people.

“Their violence is not our identity. Their hatred does not represent Nigerians of any faith, creed or community,” he said.

Tinubu thanked security personnel for their vigilance and service and offered prayers for their safety as they continue to defend the nation.

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The former Arsenal playmaker made his debut for Nigeria in a friendly match against DR Congo in Visé, Belgium on 8th October 18, 2015.

Iwobi became an important player for the Super Eagles since then and has played 99 times for Nigeria, with the game against Portugal set to be his 100 for Nigeria.

In a statement by Ademola Olajire, Director Of Communication of Nigeria Football Federation ( NFF) on Monday, Iwobi sends gratitude to Nigerians and says he has no regret choosing Nigeria.

“I am proud to be where I am today; proud to wear the green-and-white. I am grateful to everyone, including the coach who called me up to the team for the first time.”

Iwobi says he has enjoyed every moment playing for the Super Eagles.

“After 10 years and eight months, I won’t say I am a legend; I only see myself as a Super Eagles’ player.

“It feels great to be looking at a 100th cap, and on a lighter note, I wish I can add another 100 caps. I have enjoyed my time with the Super Eagles.”

Iwobi added that he wish the Super Eagles had won the AFCON and qualified for the 2026 World Cup.

“Yes, I would have loved to win the AFCON and perhaps be with the Eagles at the FIFA World Cup that is about to kick off in a few days’ time, but no regrets.”

Iwobi’s father, Bar. Chuka Iwobi, an ex-footballer, told thenff.com that the family is proud of what Iwobi has achieved with the Super Eagles.

“We remain ever grateful to the nation for the opportunity Alex has been given. When he made his debut in 2015, little did we know that this was the beginning of an amazing and incredible journey.

” A journey which would lead to him achieving the milestone of a hundred caps and with the potential of many more caps to come.”

30-years old Alex Iwobi has featured at four AFCONs and one FIFA World Cup for Nigeria. The playmaker has three AFCON medals, silver medal in 2023 and bronze medals in 2019 and 2025.

Our correspondent reports that Nigeria will play Portugal national football team on Wednesday in Leiria, Portugal.

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Our correspondent reports that Sonayon-James currently serves as the State Deputy Woman Leader of APC.

Unveiling the candidate in Lagos, the State Chairman of the APC and Chairman of the Forum of 36 APC State Chairmen, Mr Cornelius Ojelabi, described Sonayon-James’emergence as the outcome of wide consultations and a rigorous selection process.

Ojelabi said that the party considered competence, leadership capacity, grassroots acceptance, party loyalty, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the continued development of Lagos State in Sonayon-James’ choice.

The chairman said that Sonayon-James distinguished herself through her exceptional commitment to service, unwavering dedication to the party.

According to him, the candidate has also distinguished herself in strength of character, innovative thinking, and proven track record of leadership across the public, private, and political sectors.

He expressed confidence in the APC ticket, describing the Hamzat/Sonayon-James combination as a blend of experience, innovation, grassroots connection, and visionary leadership.

Ojelabi urged residents of the state to support the APC team, noting that a vote for the party represents a vote for continuity, prosperity, inclusive growth, and a greater Lagos.

“Hon. Damilola Sonayon-James is a 41-year-old accomplished governance and development professional with over 15 years of experience.

“Her experience spans public policy, institutional development, sustainability, risk governance, human capital strategy, stakeholder engagement, and community development.

“Widely recognised for her grassroots engagement and commitment to community development, she previously served as Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry-West Local Council Development Area.

“She (Sonayon-Jamees) championed several impactful initiatives focused on agricultural development, women empowerment, youth inclusion, educational support, community welfare, and social intervention programmes,” Ojelabi said.

According to the chairman, beyond public office, Sonayon-James has remained actively involved in grassroots political mobilisation, women’s leadership development, youth empowerment, and community advocacy across Lagos State.

“Her dedication to service and her close connection with the people have earned her widespread admiration, particularly among women and young people, many of whom affectionately refer to her as “Sisi Eko of APC”.

“Her emergence as deputy governorship candidate further reinforces the APC’s commitment to inclusive youth participation, women representation.

“This reinforces APC’s commitment to the continued advancement of Lagos State as Africa’s leading centre for innovation, opportunity, and sustainable development.”he said.

Our correspondent reports the deputy governor,Dr Obafemi Hamzat, recently emerged the party’s governorship candidate.

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The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, confirmed this in a statement on Monday.

Bakare-Oki said that the accident occurred on Monday and involved an unidentified motorist who absconded immediately after knocking down the victim.

“The victim was left critically exposed and unattended to on the busy expressway.

“LASTMA personnel, who were monitoring and regulating vehicular movement within the corridor, swiftly activated a coordinated emergency response by promptly securing the victim from further danger.

“She was evacuated from the carriageway, and LASTMA immediately alerted officials of Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS) while implementing traffic control measures to prevent secondary accidents and ensure uninterrupted flow of traffic,” he said.

He said that LASAMBUS officers safely evacuated the victim to the General Hospital, Odan, where she was admitted for a comprehensive medical evaluation and urgent treatment.

Bakare-Oki expressed concern over recurring hit-and-run cases, describing the act as morally reprehensible and legally condemnable.

“Every motorist bears an inherent civic and moral obligation to uphold the sanctity of human life.

“Fleeing the scene of an accident after causing injury to another road user is not only an abdication of responsibility but also a grievous affront to humanity and the rule of law,” he said.

He urged motorists to exercise caution and strictly comply with extant traffic regulations.

He advised members of the public to promptly report road accidents and emergencies through designated channels to facilitate immediate interventions by relevant authorities.

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It blamed an accident, which claimed lives of its personnel for the delay.

WAEC, the organiser of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) made the explanation in a statement on Monday.

The statement was signed by the council’s Head of Public Affairs Department, Mrs Moyosola Adesina.

“The delay resulted partly from a devastating motor accident which claimed three personnel transporting sensitive examination materials interstate, severely disrupting our planned distribution schedule,” it said.

It described the incident as heartbreaking, saying that emergency contingency measures were activated promptly to ensure examinations were eventually conducted in the affected centres.

“While mourning our fallen colleagues, dedicated staff worked tirelessly around the clock, deploying emergency arrangements that enabled conduct of examinations across the affected areas,” it said.

WAEC also attributed the delay to issues surrounding finalisation of examination modalities and late registration of candidates which, it said, affected preparation of materials.

The examination body also said that security challenges and protests against abduction of schoolchildren disrupted movements and affected timely delivery of examination materials.

It gave the assurance that modalities had been strengthened to guarantee smooth conduct of the remaining papers.

“The council has put effective measures in place to ensure remaining examinations proceed smoothly as demonstrated by improved conduct recorded on June 5.”

The council expressed gratitude for support from education ministries, security agencies and other stakeholders, describing them as dependable partners in service delivery.

WAEC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining academic credibility, examination integrity and administrative excellence.

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Olorunfemi, a factional LP leader loyal to the embattled National Chairman of the party, Mr Julius Abure,said this in an interview with our correspondent on Monday in Lagos.

He said the prolonged leadership dispute had weakened the party and affected its preparedness for the 2027 general elections.

According to him, the reality is that the party is not adequately positioned at the moment to mount a challenge similar to what it achieved in the 2023 elections.

“It will be difficult. By the time these issues are resolved, valuable time would have been lost.

“Building momentum around a new presidential candidate and mobilising nationwide support requires substantial time and organisation,” he said.

Olorunfemi said that despite the challenges facing the party, members loyal to the Abure-led leadership remained united and resolute.

He, however, hinted that the group could align with another political platform ahead of the 2027 elections.

He,however,said the decision would depend on the outcome of ongoing legal battle over the party’s leadership.

“As things stand, the Labour Party is facing a serious internal crisis. However, the people who truly constitute the Labour Party remain united and resolute.

“There is a possibility that we may eventually align with another political platform ahead of the 2027 elections, depending on the outcome of ongoing legal processes,” he said.

The LP chieftain said that his faction had conducted its own primary election and produced a presidential candidate, while the opposing faction also had its candidate.

He noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognised the faction that emerged following judgments of the High Court and Court of Appeal.

“We are awaiting the Supreme Court’s final decision,” he said.

Olorunfemi said his faction’s position before the apex court was that courts had consistently held that they could not impose or appoint leaders for political parties.

According to him, the convention conducted by the Abure-led leadership complied with the party’s constitution and due process requirements.

“We conducted a valid convention in accordance with the party constitution and all due processes were followed.

“That convention has never been set aside by any court.

“Our contention is that if a convention was validly conducted and produced party leaders, those outcomes remain binding unless overturned through lawful procedures,” he said.

Olorunfemi said that if the Supreme Court ruled against his faction, its members would carefully study the judgment and decide on their next line of action.

“One option under consideration is leaving the Labour Party ,then join another political party.

“The members and structures that support us remain intact, and those supporters can move with us,if necessary,” he said.

Our correspondent reports that many prominent members of the party, including its 2023 Presidential Candidate, Mr Peter Obi, and his supporters, had dumped the party for other platforms

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Sanwo-Olu spoke at the opening of the third edition of Invest Lagos Summit 3.0 where government officials, investors, development partners and business leaders gathered to explore opportunities across strategic sectors of the economy.

The governor said Lagos, with over 25 million residents and a rapidly-expanding economy, remained strategically positioned to leverage opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area and global markets.

According to him, sustained investments in transport, technology, agriculture and human capital development have strengthened Lagos’s competitiveness, while major infrastructure projects continue to improve connectivity, productivity and investment attractiveness.

He highlighted achievements including the Blue and Red Rail Lines, ongoing work on Green Line, digital infrastructure expansion and efforts to establish Lagos, as Africa’s leading financial hub.

“Our ambition is to build a human-centred global city where innovation thrives, businesses flourish and opportunities abound for young people seeking to contribute meaningfully to economic development,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The governor said that Lagos was attracting increasing support from development finance institutions, multilateral organisations and private investors.

He added that strategic partnerships remained critical to achieving long-term economic transformation goals.

Sanwo-Olu said that success would be measured by investments secured, jobs created and lives improved, stressing that the summit was designed to generate tangible outcomes beyond discussions and declarations.

In his remarks, Lord Marland, Chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), described Lagos as Nigeria’s economic heartbeat and a city capable of leading solutions to emerging global challenges.

Marland said that disruptions in global trade, energy security, food systems and climate resilience required innovative leadership, noting that Nigeria possessed the resources and entrepreneurial capacity needed for progress.

“This is the moment for Lagos, Nigeria and the Commonwealth to demonstrate leadership and provide practical solutions that will shape future economic growth and prosperity,” Marland said.

Earlier, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, described Lagos as Africa’s most dynamic commercial hub and Nigeria’s economic powerhouse.

Ambrose-Medebem said the summit had evolved into one of Africa’s foremost sub-national investment platforms, connecting investors with opportunities spanning infrastructure, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, agriculture and logistics sectors.

She reaffirmed the state’s commitment to maintaining an investor-friendly environment through policy reforms, public-private partnerships and strategic infrastructure investments designed to promote sustainable economic growth and prosperity.

“Lagos is open for business, partnerships and investments.

“Opportunities, talents, leadership and market are here to support transformative ventures and shared prosperity,” Ambrose-Medebem said.

The summit attracted governors, diplomats, financiers, development institutions, corporate executives and investors from Nigeria and abroad, providing a platform for partnerships expected to accelerate economic development.

Invited governors are Dr Alex Otti of Abia, Sen. Hope Uzodinma of Imo, Dr Agbu Kefas of Taraba, and Mr Abdullahi Sule of Nassarawa State.

They had a panel section where they shared ideas, challenges and success stories.

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The tragic incident occurred around 9 a.m on Pankhurst Avenue. Emergency responders discovered Orabiyi with severe stab wounds in a nearby garden on Rayleigh road, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Talay’s death was confirmed in a statement released by his family on Instagram handle @Queencleo, described their loss as an “overwhelming sadness”.

Throughout his career, he wrote and contributed to chart-topping hits for major international artists, including Chipmunk’s UK number-one single “Oopsy Daisy” and tracks for Dua Lipa, Usher, and Britney Spears.

Our correspondent reports that his sudden passing triggered an outpouring of tributes around the globe as the family remembered Riley not only for his professional accomplishments, but also for his character.

Notable singers, including Stormzy, took to the comment section to write, “I’m sorry bro”.

Craig David said, “Sending so much love to you and the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt and shown from the other side”.

Riley was a highly acclaimed musical talent in the UK grime and R&B scenes.

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