In line with the agriculture sector transformation programme of President Goodluck Jonathan’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA), Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development have commence the certification of aquaculture industry.

This revealed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Ezekiel Oyemomi at the opening ceremony of a one-day preparatory meeting of the National Codex Committee, NCC technical sub-committee on animal and animal products, fish and fishery products in Abuja.

“A ministerial codex committee (MCC) has been put in place to coordinate codex activities and other food safety issues. A number of officers have also participated at both local and international meetings,” oyemomi said.

“All these efforts are aimed at promoting quality assurance and ensure wholesomeness of foods of animal origin to the consuming public, said Oyemomi who was represented by the Acting Director, Federal Department of Fisheries, Joseph Nyagal.

He adjudged that in order to further strengthen food safety systems and chains, there is the need for government, industries and consumers to work together to strengthen food safety, locally and internationally.

“Consumers need to be well informed about safety in their food practices and there is also the need to be of greater awareness of how their demands can drive the industry.”

He added that responding to food safety challenges need system-based, scientific-based and cross-sectoral approach where government, industry and consumer work together for clear responsibilities so as to promote Nigerian fish trade at the regional and international markets.