The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a two-week ultimatum to edible oil manufacturers and distributors to use dedicated green-painted tankers for transporting cooking oils, as announced during a joint meeting on Friday with oil manufacturers, the National Union of Edible Oil Tanker Drivers (NUEOTDN), and the Nigeria Labour Congress.
Martins Iluyomade, NAFDAC’s director of investigation and enforcement, stated that the directive aims to protect public health by ensuring only dedicated tankers are used for edible oil transport.
He condemned the practice of using petroleum and diesel trucks, calling it dangerous and unacceptable due to health risks.Iluyomade emphasized that edible oils are a staple in nearly every meal, necessitating strict regulation to prevent contaminated products from reaching consumers.
He warned that non-compliance would result in severe sanctions, underscoring that public health is a national security priority. He noted that NAFDAC had held prior stakeholder meetings to address the issue.
Usman Tajudeen, NUEOTDN’s national secretary, pledged the union’s full compliance, stating that members have been trained and urged manufacturers to avoid unauthorized truck operators.
He described the two-week deadline as an opportunity for truck owners to adapt.Luke Bamidele, quality assurance manager at Premium Edible Oil Products, Ibadan, confirmed manufacturers’ readiness to comply and urged NUEOTDN to further educate drivers.
Adebayo Idowu, vice-chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Lagos chapter, also endorsed NAFDAC’s efforts to curb unsafe edible oil distribution.
A green-painted tanker was showcased at NAFDAC’s office as the approved standard for edible oil transport nationwide.
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