HURIWA Calls on National Assembly to Reconsider Nutritionists’ Council Bill

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has made a strong appeal to the National Assembly, urging lawmakers to withdraw a contentious bill aimed at establishing a regulatory council for nutritionists. HURIWA's concerns center on the bill's vague definitions, which they claim fail to adequately differentiate between professional nutritional services and general family guidance or the transmission of traditional dietary knowledge.

In a statement released to the press, HURIWA emphasized the importance of establishing clear professional standards within the field of nutrition, arguing that the bill, as it stands, could dilute the professional identity of nutritionists. "It is critical that any legislation pertaining to nutrition distinguishes between qualified, evidence-based nutritional advice and traditional practices that may not meet modern health standards," the organization noted.

Furthermore, HURIWA warned that without a clear framework, the council could inadvertently legitimize untrained individuals who offer nutritional advice based on anecdotal evidence or cultural practices, potentially jeopardizing public health. The association called on stakeholders in the health and education sectors to engage in dialogues to refine the bill, ensuring it meets the necessary professional standards before any legislative approval.

“The integrity of nutritional practice in Nigeria should not be compromised by ambiguous legislation,” HURIWA stated. “We advocate for a system that protects both practitioners and the public from misinformation.”

As discussions around the bill continue, it remains to be seen how the National Assembly will respond to HURIWA's call and whether further amendments will be made to align the legislation with best practices in the field of nutrition.