Ogun Govt. vows to maintain hygienic meat handling practices

Ogun Govt. vows to maintain hygienic meat handling practices

Hygiene

By Joy Akinsanya
Ijebu-Igbo (Ogun State), June 21, 2024 (NAN) The Ogun Government on Friday  vowed to ensure hygienic meat handling practices in abattoirs and enforce strict regulations to safeguard public health.

Mr Bolu Owotomo, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, made the pledge during a visit to resolve the issue arising from the sealing of Funmodara Slaughter Slab at Ijebu-Igbo by Veterinary Public Health Enforcement Team.

He said “this development is to boost consumers’ confidence in the meat industry and ensure a safe and healthy food supply chain.

“Our government is determined to improve sanitation and hygiene in the meat industry, and also guarantee the consumption of wholesome meat.”

He explained that the move was part of efforts to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases and ensure the safety of meat products in the state.

He warned abattoir operators to adhere to strict guidelines or face penalties.

While emphasising commitment to protecting the well-being of citizens, the commissioner urged butchers to support and cooperate with government, for improved services in the slaughter slabs.

The Director of Veterinary services, Dr Taiwo Jolaoso, also enjoined butchers to cooperate with veterinary officials and ensure only healthy animals were slaughtered for consumption.

Responding on behalf of the butchers, the Chairman of the Slab, Alhaji Musa Abesin, commended the commissioner for intervening and for ordering the re-opening of the abattoir.

He said “we really appreciate your presence and your prompt response on this issue, we also give you our promise to cooperate with government to improve the slabs.

“We are also appealing for rehabilitation of the road leading to the abattoir and provision of necessary amenities to make the abattoir conducive.”(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
IOJ/HA

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu