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Tag: NAFDAC

  • NAFDAC DG Counsels Against Excessive Sodium intake, to Prevent Premature Deaths

    NAFDAC DG Counsels Against Excessive Sodium intake, to Prevent Premature Deaths

     

    – diet-related non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke are on the rise globally and within Nigeria – DG

    (NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye in group photograph with stakeholders at the engagement function)

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Lagos (Flowerbudnews): The Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC),
    Prof. Mojisola Christiana Adeyeye has warned against excessive intake of sodium to prevent premature deaths from non- communicable diseases.

    The NAFDAC DG gave charge in Lagos on Wednesday while speaking at the Stakeholder Engagement on the NAFDAC Reduction of Sodium in Pre-Packaged Foods Regulations 2026.

    Prof. Adeyeye disclosed that excessive sodium intake had been identified as one of the leading dietary risk factors contributing to the global and local rise in diet-related non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke.

    ‘:World Health Organization continues to emphasize sodium reduction as one of the most cost-effective strategies for improving population health and preventing premature deaths from non-communicable diseases,” She stressed, adding;

    ”In Nigeria, changing dietary patterns, rapid urbanisation, and increased consumption of processed and pre-packaged foods have significantly contributed to higher sodium intake among our population.”

    She disclosed that on ”recognizing this emerging public health concern, the Federal Government—through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and NAFDAC—has taken proactive steps’: to address the challenge.

    The NAFDAC Boss said that the stakeholders engagement reflects the participants’ shared commitment to safeguarding the health of Nigerians and strengthening the national food regulatory framework.

    ”The Reduction of Sodium in Pre-Packaged Foods Regulations 2026 is a key component of Nigeria’s broader strategy to promote healthier diets and prevent non-communicable diseases,” Prof. Adeyeye said.

     

    She stated further:

    These Regulations aim to establish maximum sodium limits in selected categories of processed and pre-packaged foods, ensure clear and transparent labelling of sodium content, and encourage product reformulation by food manufacturers so that consumers can make healthier dietary choices.

    However, regulations alone cannot achieve the desired impact without the active participation of all stakeholders.

    The food industry plays a central role in reformulating products to reduce sodium content while maintaining safety, quality, and consumer acceptability.

    At the same time, regulators, researchers, public health advocates, and consumer organisations must work collaboratively to ensure effective implementation, monitoring, and compliance.

    This stakeholder engagement therefore, provides an invaluable platform to:Present and clarify the key provisions of the proposed regulations. Obtain constructive feedback from industry and other stakeholders.Identify practical strategies for implementation.

    Strengthen collaboration in advancing healthier food environments in Nigeria. At NAFDAC, we recognize that regulatory reforms must be evidence-based, transparent, and inclusive. Our goal is not to disrupt industry operations, but to work with all partners to create a food system that supports both public health and sustainable economic growth.

    The reduction of sodium in our food supply is not merely a regulatory obligation—it is a national health priority. By taking decisive action today, we are protecting future generations from preventable diseases and improving the overall wellbeing of Nigerians.

    She encouraged the stakeholders to engage actively, share expertise, and contribute meaningfully to the discussions.

    ”Your insights will help refine the Regulations and ensure that they are both effective and practical for implementation,” Prof Adeyeye noted.

    She expressed sincere appreciation to the Honourable Minister for Health and Social Welfare; Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Director Food and Drug Services, FMoHSW, NHED, other partners and stakeholders who supported the development of the initiative.

    She declared: ”Together, we can build a healthier Nigeria through safer and more nutritious food choices.”

    Prof. Adeyeye acknowledged the support of several organisations and personalities to the success of the engagement, including the
    World Health Organization, NAFDAC Directors, Chief Executive and team from Network for Health Equity and Development (NHED) among others. (Flowerbudnews)

     

  • NAFDAC’s 5+5 Policy Initiative Boosts Nigeria’s Economy, Attracts Foreign Investments, Spurs Local Drug Production

    NAFDAC’s 5+5 Policy Initiative Boosts Nigeria’s Economy, Attracts Foreign Investments, Spurs Local Drug Production

    (NAFDAC DIRECTOR GENERAL, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye and Ambassador Suharto in a group photograph)

    By Biola Lawal
    Abuja (Flowerbudnews): The strategic 5+5 Policy initiative, introduced by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to promote local production of medicines, is already attracting tremendous foreign investment into Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector.

    The good news of the positive impact of the policy on the nation’s pharmaceutical landscape ,was announced by the NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, while speaking during a courtesy visit by the Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Amb. Bambang Suharto in Abuja.

    The policy, introduced in 2018 by the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, has begun to yield significant results, with an increasing number of foreign investors establishing manufacturing plants in Nigeria, or entering into partnerships with indigenous pharmaceutical companies to produce medicines locally.

    She noted that Nigeria’s attainment of the World Health Organization (WHO) Maturity Level 3, and i its recertification in 2025 for the regulation of medicines and vaccines, had positioned the country as an attractive destination for pharmaceutical investment.

    Prrof. Adeyeye disclosed that NAFDAC also operates a state-of-the-art Biologics and Vaccines Laboratory in Yaba, Lagos, an achievement that has further strengthened Nigeria’s regulatory and production capabilities within Sub-Saharan Africa.

    Reaffirming the Agency’s commitment to the 5+5 Policy, Prof. Adeyeye assured the Ambassador of NAFDAC’s readiness to support prospective investors seeking to establish pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities in Nigeria.

    She explained that the policy ” is aimed at boosting local production, enhancing drug security, and reducing dependence on imported pharmaceuticals.”

    ”The 5+5 Policy, also known as the Five Plus Five-Year Validity Policy, is an import-to-local production migration strategy. Under the framework, product registration licenses are valid for five years. By the fourth year, companies are required to submit detailed plans either through partnerships with Nigerian pharmaceutical firms, or by establishing local manufacturing facilities for transitioning to domestic production.

    ”Upon meeting these requirements, licenses may be renewed for an additional five years, during which NAFDAC closely monitors compliance with the migration plan,” the NAFDAC Boss stated.

    Prof. Adeyeye emphasized that, beyond strengthening the pharmaceutical industry, ”the policy is also designed to stimulate economic growth, expand access to quality medicines, build local manufacturing capacity, and ultimately ensure national drug security.’:

    In his remarks, Ambassador Bambang Suharto commended the leadership of Prof. Adeyeye, describing her as pragmatic and committed to advancing Nigeria’s healthcare and regulatory systems.

    He noted that Nigeria’s large population and growing market make it an attractive destination for Indonesian pharmaceutical companies.

    The Ambassador further expressed his country’s interest in formalizing collaboration with NAFDAC through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance trade, technical exchange, and capacity building between both nations. (Flowerbudnews)

  • NAFDAC unveils 24/7 call centre to boost its  regulatory functions and services

    NAFDAC unveils 24/7 call centre to boost its  regulatory functions and services

     

    –  The call centre would provide timely information on procedures, including product registration timelines and requirements, thereby facilitating trade – DG

     

    By Aderogba George

    Abuja:  The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has established a 24-hour call centre in partnership with Interra Networks Ltd to strengthen the Agency’s regulatory services.

    The Centre, which was commissioned on Friday,  would be managed by the telecommunications company, to handle complaints from customers on food, drugs and other regulated products in real time.

    Speaking during the inauguration, NAFDAC Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, said the call centre would enhance the regulatory functions of the Agency and also Nigerians at large.

    She noted that the platform would improve service delivery, given the agency’s engagement with thousands of customers across various sectors.

    “We have thousands of customers dealing with food, drugs, vaccines, medical devices, water, cosmetics and herbal medicines.

    “The services we render are such that customers may not always know what to do or where to go, especially when it comes to product registration.

    “As we continue to digitise our processes, some customers may find it difficult to navigate the system, and we must meet their needs,” she said.

    Adeyeye explained that the call centre would provide timely information on procedures, including product registration timelines and requirements, thereby facilitating trade.

    “This timely registration will translate into increased trade, so the call centre is a great initiative for the country,” she added.

    On sustainability, the NAFDAC boss emphasised the importance of financial discipline in maintaining the facility.

    “If we cannot pay what it takes to sustain this project, then it will not be sustainable. Part of our quality management system involves financial responsibility,” she said.

    She disclosed that upon assuming office in 2017, she inherited a debt of N3.2 billion, which had since been cleared through prudent financial management.

    Adeyeye added that trained NAFDAC staff, including mid-level officers and directors, would support the call centre by handling escalated issues.

    She further said the centre would help curb the circulation of substandard products by improving intelligence gathering.

    “If someone calls in to report a suspicious product, whether food or drugs, we will act swiftly. The call centre will greatly enhance our surveillance efforts,” she said.

    Adeyeye reiterated that the ban on alcohol in sachets and PET bottles below 200ml remained in force, stressing that there was no reversal of the policy.

    Earlier, the Managing Director of Interra Networks Ltd, Mr Emeka Okafor, said the company specialises in Business Process Outsourcing Services (BPOS), providing customer engagement solutions for organisations.

    “With specific reference to NAFDAC, the agency has a strong regulatory mandate and is also customer-focused.

    “It has entrusted us to manage customer complaints and enquiries. We receive calls, respond to them and escalate unresolved issues to the agency,” he said.

    Okafor assured that the call lines would be available 24/7, adding that no customer call would go unanswered.

    He also noted that the company works closely with network providers to ensure reliable, high-capacity connectivity for seamless service delivery. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

  • NAFDAC, NHIA Partner to Enhance Access to Quality Healthcare by Nigerians

    NAFDAC, NHIA Partner to Enhance Access to Quality Healthcare by Nigerians

     

    (NAFDAC Director General, Prof Adeyeye in group photograph with NHIA DG, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, his entourage and NAFDAC principal officers)

     

    (Prof. Adeyeye stressing an important point during the visit)

    –   Advocates involvement of both NAFDAC and the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) in the procurement processes of medicines as a critical measure to curb the circulation of counterfeit and expired drugs in healthcare facilities

     

     

    By Biola Lawal

    Abuja (FLOWERBUDNEWS):  In line with the Presidential  Renewed Hope Agenda for  Universal Health Coverage for all Nigerians, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has began collaboration with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to improve access to quality medicines in hospitals across the country.

     

     

    The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, made this known on Thursday in Abuja while speaking during a courtesy visit to her by the Director-General of NHIA, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri.

    Prof. Adeyeye noted that the unfolding collaboration between NAFDAC and  NHIA would be a renewed drive to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, for the achievement the Presidential directive aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage for all Nigerians.

    Prof. Adeyeye however stressed the need and importance of involving both NAFDAC and the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) in the procurement processes of medicines.

    According to her, such collaboration ‘:is critical to curbing the circulation of counterfeit and expired drugs in healthcare facilities and ensuring that Nigerians have access to safe, effective, and high-quality medicines.”

    She further highlighted the regulatory roles of NAFDAC and PCN, noting that their responsibilities extend to monitoring compliance, sanctioning defaulters, revoking licenses, and, where necessary, shutting down pharmaceutical companies that fail to adhere to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.

    The NAFDAC boss also expressed concern over the challenges Nigerians face in accessing quality healthcare services, particularly those covered under the NHIA scheme. She described the experiences of many patients as difficult and, at times, traumatic.

     

    Reaffirming the agency’s commitment, Prof. Adeyeye pledged that NAFDAC would continue to strengthen partnerships with relevant government agencies to ensure the availability of quality medicines.

    The NAFDAC DG reiterated her Agency’s commitment to helping to alleviate the burden faced by citizens in accessing healthcare, a burden which is being tackled through President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’ s Renewed Hope agenda for easy access to healthcare be all Nigerians.

    In his remarks, the NHIA Director-General Dr. Ohiri, commended Prof. Adeyeye for her leadership and dedication to safeguarding public health through the regulation of medicines and other products.

    He noted that effective healthcare delivery required strong synergy between regulatory bodies and service providers.

    Dr. Ohiri explained that the purpose of his visit was to review the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NHIA and NAFDAC, strengthen institutional collaboration, and discuss ongoing reforms aimed at improving healthcare access and advancing the medicines supply initiative.

    He also highlighted the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund as a key initiative designed to expand health insurance coverage and address pressing concerns of citizens.

    The NHIA DG appreciated Prof. Adeyeye for identifying challenges faced by patients and assured that the ongoing reforms within NHIA would address most of these issues. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

  • NAFDAC DG Hosts Bangladesh Envoy, Discusses Strategic Collaboration in Pharmaceutical Devt

    NAFDAC DG Hosts Bangladesh Envoy, Discusses Strategic Collaboration in Pharmaceutical Devt

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Abuja (FLOWERBUDNEWS): The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has began discussions with the Bangladesh High Commission to explore strategic collaboration in pharmaceutical development, trade, and regulatory strengthening.

    The talks were held on Tuesday in Abuja when NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye hosted the Bangladesh High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Miah Md. Mainul Kabir, who paid her a courtesy visit.

    Flowerbudnews learnt that discussions during the visit particularly focused on opportunities for technological exchange, enhancement of the safety and quality of medicines and vaccines in both countries.

    Speaking during the visit. Prof. Adeyeye reaffirmed NAFDAC’s commitment to ensuring the availability of safe, quality, and efficacious medicines through robust regulatory systems and post-market surveillance.

    The NAFDAC Boss stressed that the growth of Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector, as supported by the Agency’s attainment of World Health Organization Maturity Level 3 status, had encouraged increased investment in local manufacturing, including vaccines and biologics.

    On his part, the Bangladesh High Commissioner expressed his country’s readiness to partner with NAFDAC to advance the pharmaceutical sector and deepen bilateral trade and investment.

    Amb. Mainul Kabir, highlighted the mutual benefits of strengthened cooperation, and emphasised the two country’s significant market potentials and shared interests in improving access to safe and effective medicines. (Flowerbudnews)

     

  • 2026 Women’s Day: NAFDAC DG Calls for Increased Investment in Well-being of Women and Children for a Healthier Nigeria

    2026 Women’s Day: NAFDAC DG Calls for Increased Investment in Well-being of Women and Children for a Healthier Nigeria

     

    –  Celebrates Women’s Contributions to Public Health

     

     

    By Biola Lawal
    FLOWERBUDNEWS: As NAFDAC marks 2026 Women’s Day. Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye has called for more investment in the well-being of women and children as an essential factor to build a healthier and more sustainable future for Nigeria

    Prof. Adeyeye made the appeal while speaking during NAFDAC commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026 with the theme “Give to Gain,” celebrating the contributions of its staff, particularly women, at an event held in Abuja.

    The event highlighted the critical role of women in advancing public health and national development.

    The NAFDAC DG emphasised the importance of recognising women’s resilience and contributions within an institution dedicated to safeguarding lives.

    Prof. Adeyeye highlighted the Agency’s Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Initiative launched in November 2025, noting that investing in the well-being of women and children should be an integral part of national development.

    The event brought together NAFDAC staff and stakeholders to reflect on the role of women in strengthening healthcare systems and community well-being.

    In her welcome remarks, Mrs. Joan Agbaagu, Head of the Reforms Unit, noted that the theme “Give to Gain” underscores the value of selfless service and collective commitment to improving the health of mothers, women, and children.

  • Sachet Alcohol ban best solution to tackle  menace of underage addiction 

    Sachet Alcohol ban best solution to tackle  menace of underage addiction 

     

    By Deji Abdulwahab
    Abuja: Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has declared the ban on alcohol in small pack sizes as the best solution to tackle the menace of underage drinking.
    Adeyeye said this at a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday to mark the commencement of enforcement of the ban on sachet alcoholic drinks nationwide.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the enforcement would be carried out by the NAFDAC, National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
    The NAFDAC boss said restricting access to sachets and small volume bottles, which could be easily concealed, would limit children’s access to alcohol.
    According to her, alcohol is one of the most widely used substances of abuse among youths.
    Adeyeye said several studies showed a rapid increase in alcohol availability, production, importation and consumption across age groups in recent decades.
    She added that the availability and easy access to alcohol had been identified as a contributory factor to the increasing alcohol consumption among minors.
    Adeyeye recalled that in 2018, the Association of Food and Beverage and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE) and the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DBAN), which are part of NAFDAC council, reported NAFDAC management to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
    “In 2018, AFBTE and DBAN took NAFDAC to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare that we were trying to reduce the concentration of alcohol in sachets. By that time, it was like 50 per cent in the sachet.
    “DBAN and AFBTE said that their businesses would be destroyed. That was 2018. The then Prof. Pate, the Minister of Health, gave these trade groups five years to reorganise their business.
    “On Feb.1, 2024, five years after, we started enforcement because our mandate is to regulate and control the manufacture, importation, exportation, distribution, advertisement, sale and use. Of seven regulated products, alcohol is part of food.
    “They resisted us and they took us to the Committee on NAFDAC at the National Assembly, who told us to suspend what we were doing in 2024. It went back and forth throughout 2024. We couldn’t do what we were supposed to do.
    “In December 2024, the then Minister, Prof. Pate,  said we should give an extra one year and we gave it,” she said.
    The NAFDAC director- general said after the agency started enforcement following the order by the Senate, the trade groups also sought for another extension.
    “However, in 2018, when this moratorium was given, we were also told to do a survey to even see the impact on our children. We did our survey in NAFDAC.
    “The results were not pleasing to the disciplinary group. They said they want an independent survey. So, we had an independent survey. It was conducted in 2021 during the pandemic,” she said.
    Adeyeye said the overall objective of the research was to undertake a national survey of consumers and retailers of alcohol, beverages and wines to determine the extent of alcohol abuse among the underage.
    She said about 2,000 respondents were sampled across the six geopolitical zones, adding that the result was damning to the country.
    Adeyeye said findings showed that 54.3 per cent of minors and underage obtained alcohol by themselves from various sources, while 49.9 per cent patronised retailers selling sachets and pet bottles.
    The NAFDAC boss, who said 50 per cent of children drink alcohol, said findings further suggest that minors and underage also access alcoholic drinks from friends and relatives, as well as from social guardians.
    “Of those who procure drinks for themselves, 47.2 per cent of minors and 48.8 per cent of underage procure drinks in sachets because it is easy to conceal.
    “Whether you are a good parent or a bad parent, it doesn’t really matter. These sachets are easy to conceal and that is what NAFDAC has banned.
    ‘The survey data revealed that 63.2 per cent of minors and 54 per cent of underage drink alcohol occasionally, while 44.3 per cent and 38.3 per cent of adults drink alcohol occasionally and daily respectively.
    “So, they even drink it more than adults because it is easy to conceal. Additionally, 9.3 per cent of minors and 25.2 per cent of underage children consume alcoholic beverages.
    “And 11.3 per cent of minors and 9.4 per cent of underage consume alcohol at least once a week. As young as nine years old in this survey consume alcohol,” she said.
    According to her, most minors underage  buy alcohol for themselves. It’s about N50 to buy a sachet of alcohol. Some people have been made rich but some children are losing their livelihoods and future.
    “Some children are potential patients for liver cirrhosis, kidney failure, mental instability.
    On the pattern of alcohol consumption and abuse by minors and underage, the survey findings revealed that about 11.7 per cent of underage children are ever engaged in binge drinking.
    “This is mostly reported in Gombe. In terms of the most use of alcohol, it is Lagos State and Rivers.”
    Adeyeye said NAFDAC expressed concern following its mandate aimed to ensure protection of public health, including children.
    Speaking on its impact on health and brain development, she said alcohol could damage the hippocampus, memory centre in the brain and prefrontal cortex leading to permanent issues with learning, memory and impulse control.
    According to her, underage drinking is linked to liver and kidney damage.Hypertension, disrupted hormone growth and increased cancer risk later in life.
    This, she said also increases risk of depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.
    “Youth who begins drinking before age 15, the minors and underage in our study are 41 per cent more likely to become dependent on alcohol. And this study also shows that they graduate to start taking cocaine and other narcotics.
    “It also has behavioural consequences as violence remains a major factor in youth suicides, homicides and motor vehicle crashes or accidents.
    “Risky behaviour is strongly linked to unprotected sexual activity, unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases,” she said.
    According to her, it also contributes to academic problem because drinking often leads to lower grades, missed classes and impaired cognitive function.
    “In our country, it is responsible for banditry. It is responsible for kidnapping. You cannot be in your right mind and point a gun at somebody. It starts from alcohol and then goes on to hard drugs.
    “Because of all these, the Senate made its resolutions on Nov. 6, 2025, and were communicated to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) on December 1, 2025.
    “The resolutions urge NAFDAC not to grant further extension to the moratorium and to ensure immediate strict enforcement of the ban on such alcohol and alcohol in small bottles.
    “It urges the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to support NAFDAC on the ban on such alcohol and alcohol in smaller volumes.
    “It urges the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to release its national alcohol policy that includes prohibition of alcohol in sachets and small volume less than 200 mls.
    “It urges the National Orientation Agency and NAFDAC to collaborate and intensify nationwide sensitisation of dangers of alcohol in sachets and small volume bottles,” she said.
    Earlier, the Director, Corporate Affairs, FCCPC, Mr Ondaje Ijagwu, said the commission would subject offenders in the food and drug sector to the offences and penalties based on the extant laws.
    “So, by tomorrow, when we begin full enforcement, and which we must, we will not be asked questions as to why we are subjecting offenders to a certain kind of penalties and sanctions. Our sanctions are quite severe.
    “By the time we begin implementation, and which we are commencing immediately, Nigerians would know,” Ijagwu said.
    The Director-General of NOA, Malam Lanre Onilu, said the Federal Government, through NAFDAC, had banned the production and sale of alcohol in sachets and in PET or glass bottles below 200 millilitres, effective from Jan. 1, 2026.
    According to Onilu, this decision is a deliberate public health intervention aimed at reducing underage access to cheap, high-concentration alcohol and curbing the alarming pattern of harmful consumption across our communities.
    “This is why this collaboration is important. NAFDAC safeguards public health through regulation. FCCPC protects consumer rights and ensures responsible market practices.
    “The National Orientation Agency mobilises citizens for behavioural change and national consciousness. Together, we are aligning regulation, consumer protection and public enlightenment to ensure that this policy achieves its intended impact,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
  • NAFDAC Perfects its Digital Platforms, Set for Seamless Integration into Nat. Single Window for Trade, Port Operations

    NAFDAC Perfects its Digital Platforms, Set for Seamless Integration into Nat. Single Window for Trade, Port Operations

    (NAFDAC DIRECTOR GENERAL PROF MOJISOLA ADEYEYE on operational visit)

     

    – Undertook strategic activities to ensure smooth transition and effective participation in the new trade ecosystem – DG

     

    (NAFDAC Director General Prof Mojisola Adeyeye)

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Abuja (Flowerbudnews) The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has applauded the impending launch of the National Single Window (NSW) for Trade by the Federal Government, describing it as
    ”a transformative step in Nigeria’s trade modernization agenda.’:

    NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, who lauded the NSW framework in public statement on Monday, acknowledged the system as a major reform to modernise the country’s trade and port operations through digital technology.

    Prof. Adeyeye disclosed that the Federal Government was set to deploy and launch the National Single Window (NSW) on 27 March 2026, assuring that NAFDAC, as a stakeholder in the project, was set for a seamless integration of its digital platforms into the Single Window.

    She explained that the ”National Single Window is a centralized digital platform that integrates all government agencies involved in import and export processes into a single electronic portal.

    ‘:This initiative is a strategic digital platform designed to streamline trade processes by enabling importers, exporters, and government agencies to submit, process, and obtain approvals for trade-related documentation through a unified electronic interface,” the NAFDAC Boss stressed.

    ‘:Through this platform, traders will submit trade-related information once, and the data will be shared automatically with all relevant regulatory agencies for processing and approvals,” She added.

    Prof. Adeyeye reaffirmed NAFDAC’s commitment to strengthening trade facilitation, regulatory efficiency, and inter-agency collaboration as the Federal Government prepared to launch the Single Window.

    The NAFDAC DG declared that as one of the critical regulatory agencies responsible for safeguarding the health of Nigerians through the regulation and control of food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, and packaged water, NAFDAC had played a pivotal role in the development and operational readiness of the National Single Window system.

    She explained that over the years, NAFDAC has made significant investments in the digitization of its regulatory processes, including the deployment of electronic platforms for product registration, permits, inspections, and import/export clearances.

    ‘:These efforts have laid a strong foundation for seamless integration into the National Single Window framework. In preparation for the launch, NAFDAC has undertaken several strategic activities to ensure smooth transition and effective participation in the new trade ecosystem,” Prof. Adeyeye stated.

    She added; ‘:These include: Alignment of NAFDAC digital platforms with the National Single Window infrastructure to ensure seamless interoperability and data exchange.

    ”Ongoing review and update of operational guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to reflect process changes arising from the implementation of the Single Window system.

    ”Strengthening inter-agency collaboration with other participating government institutions involved in trade facilitation, border control, and regulatory oversight.

    ”Capacity building and sensitization of NAFDAC staff to ensure effective use of the platform.Updating regulatory documentation and guidelines on the NAFDAC website to reflect the integration with the National Single Window portal.’:

    She said that ”through these efforts, NAFDAC aims to enhance regulatory transparency, reduce duplication of processes, minimize delays in cargo clearance, and support Nigeria’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business.”

    The Director-General said that NAFDAC remained ”committed to leveraging digital technologies and collaborative governance to strengthen regulatory oversight while facilitating legitimate trade.”

    ‘:The management of NAFDAC believes that the National Single Window represents a transformative step in Nigeria’s trade modernization agenda.

    ”NAFDAC is therefore, proud to contribute to this national initiative by ensuring that regulatory processes are efficient, transparent, and aligned with global best practices,” She said.

    Prof. Adeyeye encouraged importers, exporters, manufacturers, and other stakeholders involved in the trade of regulated products to familiarize themselves with the National Single Window platform and comply with updated regulatory procedures that will accompany the system’s implementation.

    The NAFDAC Boss reiterated the Agency’s commitment to protecting public health, while supporting national economic growth through efficient and technology-driven regulatory systems. (Flowerbudnews)

     

  • NAFDAC constitutes task-force to tackle fake drugs, unwholesome packaged food in Ebonyi

    NAFDAC constitutes task-force to tackle fake drugs, unwholesome packaged food in Ebonyi

     

    (NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye)

     

    By Christian Ogbonna

    Abakaliki:  The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has inaugurated a Task-Force on “Counterfeit, Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods” in Ebonyi.

    Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of the agency, represented by the South-East Zonal Director, Dr Festus Ukadike inaugurated the taskforce in Abakaliki on Friday.

    Adeyeye said the inauguration was part of the agency’s efforts to combat the incidence of counterfeit, fake drugs, and unwholesome processed foods not only in Ebonyi but Nigeria at large.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the task-force comprised representatives of NAFDAC, the state Ministry of Health, Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Police Force.

    Adeyeye urged the people of Ebonyi to stand with the task-force and forge stronger team in confronting the threats posed by counterfeit medicines and unsafe packaged foods in the state.

    “The mandate of the task-force includes, enforcing standards, conducting intelligence-driven surveillance, removing illegal products from circulation, and strengthening public awareness.

    “The task-force will also support legitimate manufacturers and traders by ensuring that compliant businesses are not undermined by counterfeiters and illegal operators,” he added.

    The director-general expressed hope that with the implementation of the taskforce measures, NAFDAC would go a long way in protecting public health, support honest businesses, reduce the economic toll of counterfeit medicines-driven illnesses and inefficiency.

    In his remark, Dr Martins Iluyomade, the Chairman, Federal Task-Force on Counterfeit, Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods, who spoke via Zoom from Lagos, said that the task-force was backed by an Act of the National Assembly, Cap C34 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

    Iluyomade urged members to see it as service to mankind and ensure that the country was free from fake drugs.

    Mr Emeka Orajaka, the Coordinator of NAFDAC in Ebonyi, said inauguration of the task-force became necessary as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery.

    Orajaka said that the task-force was ready to work hard to protect consumers, as well as Nigerians.

    Dr Moses Ekuma, Ebonyi State Commissioner of Health, commended NAFDAC and pledged his support to ensure that members of the team succeeded in carrying out their duties.

    NAN reports that the administration of the oath of office to members of the state Task-Force was done by Barr Jumbo Washington, the Agency’s Investigation & Enforcement Directorate, Asaba. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)