Climate Change and Food Security: A Call to Action
Experts from the Society of Testing Laboratory Analysts of Nigeria (SoTLAN) have raised significant concerns about the impact of climate change on food systems. They warn that without immediate and decisive action, Nigeria could face even greater levels of food insecurity in the coming years. This issue will be at the forefront of discussions during the 7th Annual Conference of Public Analysts, which is set to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from July 8 to 10.
The conference, themed “The Role of Public Analysts in Tackling the Challenge of Climate Change for Food Security,” aims to explore science-based solutions to address the growing threats posed by climate change to food systems. During a recent media engagement, SoTLAN President, Prof Olugbenga Ogunmoyela, emphasized the importance of using data from public laboratories to drive meaningful interventions in both environmental and food security contexts.
Ogunmoyela highlighted the alarming state of Nigeria’s natural resources, stating that forests have been depleted, water sources polluted, and food systems compromised. He stressed that public analysts must take a leading role in monitoring and mitigating these environmental challenges. “Public Analysts must rise to the task of monitoring and mitigating these environmental threats,” he said.
Another pressing issue discussed was the delay in reconstituting the Governing Council of the Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN). The council was dissolved along with others in June 2023, and nearly two years have passed without its restoration. Ogunmoyela warned that this prolonged absence is undermining regulation within the field. “The profession cannot thrive in a vacuum,” he stated, emphasizing the need for swift action to restore institutional stability.
The president also criticized the presence of unlicensed individuals in the field, whom he referred to as “quacks.” He urged the public to demand analysis reports that bear the IPAN Practice Licence Stamp, which he described as the only legally recognized document in court. This call to action underscores the importance of maintaining professional standards and ensuring the credibility of analytical work in Nigeria.
In addition to these concerns, Ogunmoyela commended the Federal Government for addressing salary arrears for regulatory staff in the health sector. However, he called on President Bola Tinubu to put an end to what he described as a “cycle of disruption” in professional regulatory institutions. He argued that consistent support and investment are essential for the long-term sustainability of these critical sectors.
This year’s conference is not just a platform for discussion but also a challenge to policymakers and stakeholders to commit to practical steps for reversing climate-linked food threats. Ogunmoyela emphasized the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, including analysts, regulators, and the public. “This conference is a clarion call to policymakers, analysts, regulators and the public to come together to protect our environment, secure our food systems and uphold professional standards,” he said.
As climate change continues to pose significant risks to global food systems, the role of public analysts becomes increasingly vital. Their expertise in monitoring environmental changes and providing scientific insights is crucial in developing effective strategies to mitigate these threats. With the right policies, resources, and collective effort, Nigeria can work towards building a more resilient and sustainable food system.
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