The bill, sponsored by Chike Okafor (Ehime/Mbano/Ihitte Uboma/Obowo Federal Constituency, Imo State), was presented for second reading but deferred due to concerns about its provisions and the limited circulation of copies among lawmakers.
Okafor argued that the legislation was necessary to curb health risks, noting that 67% of Nigerians consume unbranded oils while only 31% of oils are fortified.
He cited World Health Organisation findings that food fortification is a cost-effective way to tackle micronutrient deficiencies.
The bill proposed penalties for offenders and a transition period for compliance, alongside collaboration with research institutes and private partners to improve oil processing.
Opposition came from lawmakers such as Paschal Agbodike (Ihiala, Anambra), who warned that the measure could harm rural palm oil producers, and Gaza Gbefwi (Karu/Keffi/Kokona, Nasarawa), who argued that agencies like NAFDAC and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria already regulate food safety.
Wale Raji (Epe, Lagos) also cautioned against “unnecessary proliferation of laws.”Supporters, including Sada Soli (Jibia/Kaita, Katsina), maintained that the bill would strengthen existing frameworks rather than duplicate them.
However, Billy Osawaru (Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde, Edo) stressed that many members had not seen the bill’s full text, making informed debate impossible.
Following these interventions, Okafor requested that the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, step down the bill to allow wider circulation and further consultations. The request was granted.
The debate reflects Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with food safety and nutrition. While fortification programmes exist, unbranded oils remain widespread in open markets, raising questions about enforcement and the adequacy of current regulations.
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