The Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) is the Professional Body of Food Scientists and Technologists and Allied Professionals in Nigeria. It was established in 1976 as a non-profit organization and has grown to over 7,000 active members working in the food manufacturing sector, higher education and research institutions, government ministries, departments and agencies. The Profession of Food Science & Technology in Nigeria became chartered with the establishment of the Nigerian Council of Food Science & Technology (NCFST) Act Cap A2 LFN of 15th October 2019 signed into law by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari. This law mandates the NCFST to define and uphold professional standards of competence, integrity and ethical behaviour among food practitioners in line with best global practices; and to ensure that the critical control areas of our food supply chain are handled in the best interests of the well-being of our people. The Professional body, NIFST, is a major stakeholder in this mandate.

NIFST mission which is “To harness the abundance of talent and knowledge amongst food professionals in Nigeria towards food sufficiency and good nutrition for the people” is achieved via training, seminar, workshop, conferences, field work and extension services.

The 44th Annual International Conference and General Meeting of NIFST holds from October 14th – 15th 2020 at D’PODIUM EVENT CENTRE, Ikeja, Lagos State. The theme of the conference is “AGRO AND FOOD PROCESSING FOR WEALTH CREATION-THE NIGERIAN EXPERIENCE” Our annual conferences attracts critical mass of about 700 participants, comprising of food scientists and technologists, agribusiness and food value chain actors, network of consultants and regulatory agencies, food enthusiast and informed consumers.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that food is one thing that is indispensable to human existence and sustainable livelihoods. In Nigeria, the challenges that food processors had to face during the lockdown demanded extra ordinary ingenuity and risk management approaches that is contextualized to the Nigerian situation.

In the plenaries and technical sessions lined up for the conference; distinguished speakers and accomplished innovative entrepreneurs shall be unpacking the challenges and opportunities inherent in food and agri-food business in Nigeria post covid and in the new normal. NIFST shall engage government at all levels with the communique of the conference.