Reject Nutritionists Registration Council Bill, Dietetics Institute Urges National Assembly, Warns Against Quackery

The Institute for Dietetics in Nigeria has urged the National Assembly to reject the proposed Nutritionists Registration Council of Nigeria bill, warning that its passage could lead to competing regulatory authorities, weakened professional standards and unqualified practitioners. The institute argues that the bill would overlap with an existing dietetics council bill and could result in confusion over professional qualifications.

They emphasize the need for a unified regulatory framework to protect public health and prevent unqualified individuals from undertaking clinical responsibilities, as errors in nutrition management can lead to severe health consequences. The institute stresses that qualified professionals undergo specialized education, clinical training and competency assessments.

They warn that establishing two overlapping regulatory bodies would introduce uncertainty into the regulation of nutrition and dietetics in Nigeria, potentially imposing additional costs on educational institutions and healthcare providers.