Category: General News

 

– in the last five years, NAFDAC CRIA agents have successfully stopped nearly 200 consignments of products that failed laboratory testing at the country of origin and prevented shipments that did not meet NAFDAC’s documentation and labelling requirements – Prof. Adeyeye

 

By Biola Lawal
Lagos (FLOWERBUDNEWS): The National Agency for Food and Drug Control and Administration (NAFDAC) has appointed COTECNA, a Global Inspection Services agency as a CRI Agent to further strengthen its battle against international counterfeiters and prevent substandard and fake medicines from entering Nigeria.

Flowerbudnews recall that on the local front, NAFDAC had recently recorded unprecedented and widely widely acclaimed success against local counterfeiters with seizure, evacuation and destruction of over N1tn worth of substandard, banned, and expired medicines in Idumota, Onitsha and Aba Open Drug markets.

Announcing the appointment of COTECNA, NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye said that COTECNA Inspection Services was appointed as a NAFDAC Clean Report of Inspection and Analysis Agent in India to fortify the prevention of import of substandard and falsified (SG) medicines and other from India and China.

Prof. Adeyeye said that NAFDAC had continued to strengthen her fight against imported substandard regulated products from China and India through the appointment of the global testing and Inspection agency in addition to the existing Pre-Shipment agents in India.

”This is to ensure that only safe and high-quality products are exported into Nigeria,” She added, a statement by Sayo Akintola NAFDAC Media Consultant, stated.

The Director General broke the news of COTECNA appointment at a hybrid Technical Meeting on Mitigating Substandard and Counterfeit Products through the Clean Report of Inspection and Analysis (CRIA) Scheme.

The meeting which was held in Lagos was attended by representatives from various sectoral groups, clearing and forwarding agents, NAFDAC staff and CRIA Agents.

Prof. Adeyeye noted that globally, the manufacture and trade of substandard and falsified medicines (SFs) have become a lucrative crime, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, resulting in economic sabotage, treatment failures, drug resistance, and loss of lives.

According to the DG, the growth of SFs is fuelled by inadequate vigilance, corruption, lack of regulatory and political will, insufficient technology, and patronage by healthcare providers, stressing that in Nigeria however, NAFDAC has made significant progress in addressing the prevalence of SFs.

Prof Adeyeye emphasised that the presence of SFs poses several challenges, including: Decreased confidence in healthcare systems due to the targeting of high-demand drugs in public health;  Therapeutic failure, adverse drug reactions, and increased drug resistance.

Other challenges were; Loss of lives resulting from the availability of substandard medicines;  involvement of organized criminal networks, which see counterfeit medicine trade as less risky than narcotics trafficking.

It also causes Reduced access to safe, high-quality, and effective medicines, while use of advanced printing technologies, making counterfeit detection by the naked eye almost impossible, the DG stated.

Prof. Adeyeye said that counterfeiters also caused Significant financial losses for genuine importers and manufacturers, with criminals profiting instead.

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She explained that the Clean Report of Inspection and Analysis (CRIA) is one of NAFDAC’s anti-counterfeiting strategies aimed at preventing the importation of substandard and falsified medicines and other regulated products into Nigeria.

Upon assuming office as NAFDAC’s Director General, she reviewed the scheme and the performance of existing CRIA agents which led to the suspension and eventual disengagement of one CRIA agent, the renewal of contracts with two others, and the addition of two new CRIA agents in India. ‘’These measures were implemented to strengthen the CRIA scheme, enhance efficiency, and bolster the fight against counterfeit and substandard products,’ she said.

Over time, she added that significant regulatory strengthening has been undertaken, which has been acknowledged by compliant manufacturers, exporters, and importers, adding that this includes signing consultancy agreements, issuing service level agreements, establishing guidelines for service provision to NAFDAC and clients, and intercepting substandard and counterfeit products.

Additionally, she reiterated that NAFDAC has introduced an electronic platform, the Ports Inspection Data Capture and Risk Management System (PIDCARMS), for verifying documents issued by NAFDAC and CRIA agents and for processing inspection reports.

Prof. Adeyeye said the CRIA Scheme is currently operational in China and India and has significantly strengthened regulatory control over products exported from these countries to Nigeria, adding that it ensures that only safe and high-quality products are shipped while preventing the export of substandard, counterfeit, and non-compliant products.

She disclosed that in the last five years, CRIA agents have successfully stopped nearly 200 consignments of products that failed laboratory testing at the country of origin and prevented shipments that did not meet NAFDAC’s documentation and labelling requirements.

To ensure further strengthening of the CRIA Scheme in India, NAFDAC has appointed Cotecna Inspection Services (CIS) as addition to the already existing Agents which are:

CRIA Agents in China:  China Standards Tech. Services Ltd (CSTS);  Guangzhou Test Technology Consulting Co. Ltd;  NHU Laboratories; and Shanghai Hanlin Laboratory Ltd

CRIA Agents in India:    Assurance Analytics Pvt. Ltd;  Cotecna Inspection Services; QCS Labs LLP;  Quntrol Labs Pvt Ltd and Silis Labs Pvt. Ltd

Prof. Adeyeye said that the responsibilities of CRIA Agents included:

Physical Inspection:  Verify that product labels comply with NAFDAC labelling guidelines before shipment.   Ensure packaging is adequate, secure, and compliant with NAFDAC standards.

Product-Specific Testing:     Conduct random sampling of regulated products and send same to NAFDAC-approved laboratories for quality evaluation;   Confirm that products meet safety and quality requirements;

Compliance with Regulatory Requirements: Review regulatory documents provided by exporters to ensure authenticity.;  Verify shipping documents, such as invoices and packing lists, for accuracy and completeness;  Report cases of failed laboratory analysis and forged documents to NAFDAC.

They are also to Identify and report shipments that may have bypassed CRIA processing, She said.

As stipulated in the consultancy agreements signed with each CRIA agent, she explained that there are designated laboratories in both China and India where sampled products must be tested.

‘It is important to note that all NAFDAC-regulated products require CRIA processing, except those on the CRIA exemption list. I encourage you to visit the NAFDAC website to review regulations and guidelines on product registration, permit issuance, labelling, and shipment into Nigeria. CRIA agents operate under clearly defined guidelines to ensure efficient service delivery and support NAFDAC in its mission to combat the importation of substandard and counterfeit products.’

The NAFDAC boss further explained that the reports issued by CRIA agents encompass critical aspects such as quality, quantity, packaging, labelling, and compliance with NAFDAC regulations, documentation standards, and internationally recognized pharmacopeial specifications.

Beyond ensuring compliance, she added that the CRIA scheme also facilitates international trade by providing Nigerian importers with confidence and assurance that their goods have been thoroughly inspected and meet regulatory requirements.

Prof Adeyeye however, disclosed that the Agency would soon swing into action in partnership with the Indian government to ensure that medicines rejected in India by the CRIA agents do not find their way back into Nigeria through the back door.

She emphasised that ‘we want to know what happens to the medicines that we rejected in India and ensure that some unscrupulous Nigerans do not connive with their counterparts in India to smuggle the same products back into Nigeria through unorthodox means.

She strongly encouraged exporters of NAFDAC regulated products to always engage CRIA agents before shipping any consignment from China or India to Nigeria, adding that they have the flexibility to choose from any of the listed CRIA agents to ensure compliance and safeguard the quality of imported products.

CRIA agents in India and China who attended the meeting virtually took turns to join other stakeholders in Nigeria in commending the DG and reiterated the inevitability of CRIA agents in her untiring efforts to sanitise the Nigeria pharma and other regulated products ecosystem.

They spoke generally on their experiences with the scheme, the NAFDAC approved requirements verification, efforts made at ensuring compliance among exporters and recommendations for further strengthening of the scheme.

Newly appointed CRIA Agent, COTECNA Inspection Services represented by Vice President, Verification of Conformity and Africa, Mrs Lena Sodergren opined that the collaboration between COTECNA and NAFDAC is a testament to shared commitment to consumer safety, product quality and facilitation of international trade.

COTECNA is entering the partnership with the aim to deliver the best possible services by leveraging on its unwavering dedication to ensuring compliance and top quality with its expertise in inspection, testing and certification.

‘I can confirm that the NAFDAC CRIA scheme is the most comprehensive food and drug, cosmetics programme in Africa and other continent as well,’ She stated, adding that the CRIA scheme is unique at ensuring traceability and comprehensive control which helps in eliminating fake declaration, fake certificates, fake test report, the shipment of counterfeit or blacklisted, non-compliance or expired products.’

,In his opening remarks, Director of Ports Inspection Directorate PID, Dr Olakunle Olaniran disclosed that his Directorate has gained tremendously from the deployment of the CRIA Scheme, especially in the close to 200 regulated products that have been either stopped from coming into the country or intercepted on arrival following intel from the countries of origin.

He said that intercepted cases range from outright falsified products or documents, alteration of labels, or attempts to ship products that have failed laboratory tests, adding that ‘we have also had a few cases that deliberately attempted to evade CRIA screening for unacceptable reasons. These have always been apprehended and sanctioned as appropriate.’ (Flowerbudnews)

 

 

 

By Majeed Ishola

FLOWERBUDNEWS:   The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Oyo State, Engr. Dr. Taofeeq Adekunle Abdul-Hamid, has charged the institution’s athletes participating in the 22nd edition of the Nigeria Polytechnic Games Association (NIPOGA) to go for gold and make the institution proud.

FLOWERBUDNEWS reports that Dr. Abdul-Hameed gave the charge during an interview with campus journalists at the halftime break of the grand opening football match between Federal Polytechnic, Offa, and Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa.

The match ended 3-0 in favor of the hosts, FEDPOFFA.

The Rector emphasized that sports play a vital role in shaping well-rounded students, complementing their academic pursuits. He encouraged the athletes to give their utmost and represent the institution with dignity and excellence.

”Strive to be the best, not just in your games, but as worthy ambassadors of the fastest-growing Federal Polytechnic in Nigeria,” he said, adding; ”The Olympic spirit is about participation, but I urge you”go for gold. Let FEDPA’s name echo across the nation and beyond.”

Dr. Abdul-Hamid reminded the students that education is not limited to the four walls of the classroom, and their performance on the field contributes to the overall growth and recognition of the Polytechnic.

In a related development, the Acting Director of Sports, FEDPA, Mallam Bashir Bello, appreciated the visionary leadership of the Rector for ensuring that the athletes were well-prepared and adequately supported for the competition.

He also commended the Rector of the host institution, Federal Polytechnic Offa, Engr. Dr. Kamoru Kadir Oluwatoyin, for successfully hosting the tournament, ensuring effective coordination, hospitality, and maximum security throughout the event.

Speaking on behalf of the team, the Captain of the FEDPA squad, Olajide Peter Olakunle, expressed gratitude to the Rector for his visible commitment to student development through sports. He promised that the team would give their best to make the institution proud.

The grand opening ceremony was attended by top dignitaries including HRM Oba Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi (Aragbiji of Iragbiji), Senator Yisa Ashiru (representing Kwara South), Hon. Sulaimon Olatunji (Chairman, Offa LG), as well as prominent Offa chiefs, rectors of other polytechnics, sports officials, coaches, fans, and members of the press. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

 

By Flowerbudnews
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has tasked filling station outlets on proactive fire safety measures meant to safeguard their premises from fire outbreaks and avoidable losses.

The Chairman of IPMAN, Enugu Depot Unit, Mr Chinedu Anyaso, gave the task on Sunday in Enugu while speaking on the need to check incidences of fire outbreaks in the oil and gas sector.

Anyaso, whose association covers independent petroleum marketers in Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu, said that his unit had mandated each petroleum product outlet to have reeady-to-use fire extinguishers and buckets of sands before commencement of operation each day.

He said that each filling station “must also have a sticker indicating NO PHONE CALLS, PLEASE” and phone number or phone code of the nearest fire fighting/service station.

“We are also partnering with the Federal Fire Service to have a seminar to educate our members and their filling stations’ attendants on how to use and handle fire extinguishers.

“They will also learn how to ensure that the content of the fire extinguishers do not leak off from its containers due to poor handling and storage as well as know when a fire extinguisher expires.

“Our members will also be exposed on other things necessary to have and know to ensure that one is alert on any possible incident of fire within a filling station.

“For now, we only recorded a fire incident in one of the filling station outlets in the remote area in the state and it was caused by answering a phone call close to a pump nozzle dispensing fuel in a filling station in January, 2025,” he said.

According to him, that incident was regrettable: and members are clearly aware that incidences of fire in any filling station outlet leads to huge losses and it is not what anyone will wish to happen.

The chairman also called on its members to be sensitive about the atmospheric temperature before offloading products from petroleum trucks/tankers especially during extreme hot weathers.

“It should be dispensed in the morning hours or it should wait in the evening hours when the intensity of the sun and hot weather reduces,” he added.

Apart from covering independent petroleum marketers in Enugu, Anambra and Ebonyi; the IPMAN Enugu Depot Unit also comprises independent petroleum marketers in some parts of Abia, Imo, Kogi and Cross River States.

 

By Flowerbudnews
A Coach and Sports Administrator, Ebere Amaraizu, has advocated for the use of sports for far-reaching social inclusion and the promotion of overall well-being of every individual in the society.

Amaraizu, who is a graduate of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), made the call on Sunday in Enugu while speaking on the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) 2025, which is commemorated globally on April 6.

This year’s theme is: “Leveling the Playing Field: Sports for Social Inclusion.”

Amaraizu, who described sports as one of the most vital human activities, characterised by its multifaceted nature, noted that sports have transformative power
in driving positive change, breaking down barriers and transcending boundaries.

“As a competitive endeavour, sports cultivate a spirit of resilience —whether in victory or defeat — that mirrors essential qualities in business and life.

“Beyond competition, sports foster relationships among participants, both direct and indirect; sustaining hope for success in the present and future.

“Additionally, sports enhance cognitive, affective and psychomotor abilities; thus, contributing to holistic personal development,” he said.

Amaraizu, who is the Chairman of Enugu State Taekwondo Association, said that participation in sports improves overall social inclusion, opportunities and dignity of individuals and groups disadvantaged by their identity.

According to him, by bringing people together in play and games; sports dismantle barriers, forge connections, and unite individuals across ages, languages, religions, cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds.

“Sports promotes gender inclusivity, support both physically able and disabled individuals, and bridge divides between the wealthy and the less privileged, as well as political leaders and their constituents. Indeed, sports is practical unifying force.

“Participation in inclusive sports significantly contributes to mental wellness and physical fitness by fostering social connections that elevate mood, reduce stress, combat isolation and loneliness, and enhance social inclusion.

“Raising mental health awareness through sports can break down barriers, creating environments where diverse groups build trust, challenge cultural and social stigmas and strengthen community ties.

“Sports provide opportunities for interaction, teamwork, and the development of meaningful relationships, all of which bolster mental well-being, and individual fitness,” Amaraizu, who
currently the Chairman of Rangers International FC Foundation, said.

 

*Goodwill Medical Centre: Transforming Community Service*

 

*By Paul Ejime*

 

After its commissioning on 23rd November 2023 by its chief benefactor, General TY Danjuma, the *Goodwill Medical Centre (GMC), Enugu,* is transforming lives in its host poor and under-served communities.

 

The Centre has just completed an iron metal bridge across a river to link at least three urban slums to essential services in the Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu State, eastern Nigeria.

 

The multi-million Naira *Avah River Bridge,* a wholly private initiative, will be opened during an official ceremony on Tuesday, 8th April 2025.

 

For decades, Umuchigbo, the GMC host community and the adjoining Ifoh community, Ugboezechi, Ugbo Laz and Ugbo Paul slum settlements had endured restricted access to healthcare and other essential services due to the Avah River, which constituted a major barrier to transportation in the area.

 

The not-for-profit and self-sustaining GMC opened its doors to the public on 1st February 2024, and consistent with its mission statement, the Centre has continued to undertake high-impact initiatives to help transform the lives of the poor in the surrounding urban slums.

 

Until the construction of the bridge, crossing the Avah river, a short distance between the GMC and the communities, was a nightmare to residents, who complained desperately about risking their lives and the high cost of transportation using the longer alternative routes.

 

Many residents who could not afford the high transportation costs were forced to wade through the river on perilous journeys to eke out a living.

 

Some residents have drowned during the process of crossing the river, and a father narrated the tragic deaths of two children within 10 days because his family could not afford the cost of transporting them to a medical facility in time.

 

The avoidable tragedies and the communities’ clarion call for help, moved the GMC Management to approach friends and public-spirited individuals to raise funds to construct the Avah River bridge for pedestrians, motorbikes and (Keke) tricycle users.

 

As they anxiously await the formal opening of the bridge, residents of the communities are expressing their heartfelt relief and celebrating in advance.

 

Apart from improving general access and easing the means of transportation for the residents, the bridge case will also reduce fatalities and case complications due to avoidable delays.

 

Also, in collaboration with the TY Danjuma Foundation (TYDF), GMC Management has completed a water harvesting and purification project by utilising water from the Avah River.

 

According to the Centre’s first Impact Assessment Report, the access barrier before the construction of the bridge had driven some women in the communities to rely on traditional birth attendants (TBAs), leading to maternal and infant deaths.

 

The GMC has trained and empowered 21 TBAs, and in collaboration with the Enugu State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ES-PHCDA), carried out a geo-spatial mapping project of all TBAs across five nearby communities.

Recognising their importance to primary healthcare, the training and retraining of TBAs are programmed three times a year to enhance their skills and knowledge and ensure early referral of complex maternal and newborn cases to the Centre.

 

Data collection and training have already started as pivotal steps towards reducing maternal mortality and improving delivery outcomes. The GMC has also reported a rise in deliveries, including several sets of triplets.

 

Furthermore, the GMC runs eye health clinics by ophthalmologists and optometrists on Tuesdays and Thursdays every week, while cataract surgeries are performed three times a month at the Centre. After 20 initial cataract surgeries sponsored by the TYDF, the GMC Cataract Surgery Unit is successfully running its eye health programme, contributing to restoring sight and improving the quality of life for many in the community.

 

Paediatricians also visit