The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to carry out testing of all drugs, food and beverages sold on university campuses across Nigeria, citing worries that untested products could pose health risks to students.
In a statement released to the press, NANS said that the proliferation of informal vendors on campus grounds has made it difficult to ensure that consumables meet safety standards, and that the lack of regular inspections leaves students vulnerable to potential contamination or sub‑standard products.
NAFDAC, the federal body responsible for regulating the quality and safety of food, medicines and other consumables in Nigeria, is being urged to extend its routine surveillance activities to include the informal market stalls that operate within university environments.
The student body highlighted several incidents where students fell ill after consuming items bought from campus vendors, though specific cases were not detailed in the statement. NANS stressed that systematic testing and certification would help protect the health of the student population and restore confidence in campus commerce.
While the association did not provide a timeline for its request, it urged the agency to act promptly, noting that the academic year is underway and that many students rely on these vendors for daily meals and medication.
NAFDAC has not yet responded publicly to the appeal, but its mandate includes regular market inspections and the enforcement of standards for all food and drug products sold in Nigeria.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
