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Tag: NAFDAC

  • Palliatives: NAFDAC slashes charges for MSMEs

    Palliatives: NAFDAC slashes charges for MSMEs

    National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has reviewed its charges regime for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in conformity with the global economic realities.

    The agency said the downward review of the processing fees for the renewal of locally manufactured and foreign products was aimed at encouraging investment and boosting the Nigerian healthcare sector amid the global economic downturn

    Rising from its last national council meeting, the agency reduced the extant processing fees for the renewal of registration for locally manufactured products by 65 percent to N44,200 from N68,000 while the processing fee for foreign products witnessed a 45 percent reduction to $450 from $1,000.

    A 10 percent review of tariff structure for facility and inspection fees for Special Economic Zones (SEZs) has also been granted.

    Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Agency’s Director General (DG) said the review was aimed at helping MSMEs survive the temporary economic fallouts of fuel subsidy removal and enhance the ease of doing business in Nigeria.  

    In a statement on Sunday, December 31, by the Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, the downward review of the administrative charges for late renewal of NAFDAC-regulated products is to make the business environment more investment-friendly in a quick response to the realities of the time.

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    While noting that as businesses across the world confront the disruptions caused by the global economic meltdown, the DG assured that NAFDAC would continue to adopt and implement practical measures to ensure that the projected growth in the MSMEs sector is not seriously affected by the development.

    Adeyeye was quoted as saying, “The response of the Agency was not just to give succour and assistance to existing MSMEs, but also ensure that there is a practical and active fillip to new MSMEs so that the growth of this sector is not discouraged by the current economic trauma. 

    “This is our moment and NAFDAC as a regulatory agency is prepared to back MSMEs and other businesses that are prepared for the innovative and interesting times that lie ahead of us.

    ‘’We have no excuse not to be one of the most productive and prolific economies in the world. We hope to achieve this aim in the incredible numbers of MSMEs that we have.”

    While describing NAFDAC palliatives for MSMEs as a thoughtful and strategic response to the realities of the present time, she added, “These are all indicators of the new spirit of NAFDAC and foretaste of the support MSMEs stand to enjoy in wading through these trying times.

    “But this is not a new undertaking for us. It is merely an extension or intensification of the federal government’s long-standing commitment to MSMEs.”

  • NAFDAC denies aiding expired license operations

    NAFDAC denies aiding expired license operations

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has refuted allegations of assisting specific companies in compromising their operational licenses within the country.

    In response to a media report, NAFDAC clarified on Thursday, December 2, through its Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, that the allegation of overlooking the expiration of certain companies without appropriate action or sanctions was inaccurate.

    Akintola clarified that after a thorough investigation, it was established that the reported issue was unfounded while encouraging the public to verify concerns before making public statements about the agency’s activities.

    The statement reads: “Wishes to disabuse the minds of our clients and the public about an online report claiming that the Agency was ‘watching’ while the manufacturers of certain products ‘flaunt expired licenses.’ 

    “Nothing could be further from the truth!

    “On the directive of the Director General, Prof. Christianah Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director, Food Registration and Regulatory Affairs of the Agency investigated the erroneous claims and discovered that the registration status of all the four products mentioned in the mischievous write-up are valid.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, Cway Drinking Water, Eva Premium Table Water, Peak Full Cream Instant Milk Powder, and Golden Penny Pasta Spaghetti all have valid registration. Cway Drinking Water (October 28, 2021 – October 27, 2026); Eva Premium Table Water (February 27, 2022 – February 26, 2025); Peak Full Cream Instant Milk Powder (June 5, 2020 – June 4, 2025); and Golden Penny Pasta Spaghetti (November 30, 2023 – November 29, 2028) are all validly registered products. 

    Read Also: NAFDAC shuts Eziukwu market

    “The online publication also mentioned Gino Magic Seasoning Tomato Mix and Cway Ultra Drinking Water. 

    “While Gino Tomato Mix has since ceased to be in circulation due to the Federal Government pronouncement of prohibition of importation on certain products, Cway Ultra Drinking Water is no longer in circulation.

    “The Agency urges the consuming public to avail themselves of the opportunity provided by the NAFDAC Registered Products Automated Database (NAPPAD) to check for products regulated by the Agency and their registration status.

    “In addition, the public and stakeholders can always contact the Agency for further information on any product validity as the above search system is not the final verdict due to possible backlog of approvals yet to be uploaded.”

  • How to identify adulterated products, by NAFDAC

    How to identify adulterated products, by NAFDAC

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has said a comprehensive list of adulterated wines and drinks in circulation.

      In response to this concern, NAFDAC said it will embark on an aggressive campaign to educate the public on effective measures to verify the authenticity of the original products. Acting on intelligence, NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, said in a statement that the agency conducted extensive intelligence gathering over several weeks. This proactive approach aimed to collect and collate data on the activities of individuals involved in the production and distribution of substandard and potentially harmful products.

     “In collaboration with other security agencies, NAFDAC carried out a sting operation in the market to burst the criminal operations taking place there. It is worthy of note that this dastard activity has been going on for a long time and they operate like a cartel threatening anyone who dares challenge them,” Adeyeye explained.

     NAFDAC’s list of identified adulterated products encompasses a broad spectrum, including various wines from popular brands such as Seaman Schnapps, Hennessey, Four Cousins, Carlo Rossi, Jenney, Chelsea London Dry Gin, Schnapp Dry Gin, McDowells, Black Labels, Gordons, Martell, Campari, Smirnoff Ice, Eva Non-Alcoholic Drink, Evra Non-Alcoholic Drink, Cartel, and others.

    In addition to exposing the proliferation of fake products, NAFDAC highlights the presence of date revalidation for expired items like Peak milk, powdered milk, Ketchups, Yoghurt, Coca Cola products, and the deceptive packaging of counterfeit and substandard products. These substandard items find their way into the market and are consumed by the public.

    Notably, NAFDAC recently intervened by intercepting counterfeiters engaged in the illicit production of various beverages, including wines, soft drinks, and consumables at Eziukwu Market (Cemetery Market) in Aba, Abia State.

     As part of its extensive operation, the agency conducted raids on more than 240 shops that had been transformed into makeshift factories, where harmful products were being produced and sold.

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    The DG highlighted the deplorable conditions of these makeshift factories, describing them as extremely unhygienic. The manufacturing process involved the use of water from unsanitary sources, harmful chemicals, saccharin, coloring agents, dirty recycled bottles, and counterfeit packaging materials mimicking other established brands. The adulteration of alcoholic beverages in the country by criminal elements typically involves the mixing of cheaper sources of sugar and starch, often substituting grapes or fruit. This process may also include the addition of various harmful chemicals that are unsuitable for human consumption.

     “Over 1,500 cartons of the fake and substandard products were destroyed during the operation while 300 cartons were evacuated to NAFDAC warehouse. The street value of the confiscated and destroyed fake products is estimated at over N750million. Ten people were arrested on arrival at the scene of the crime and will be charged to court after thorough investigation,” she said.

     Given the extensive scale of illegitimate activities within that section of the market, Adeyeye emphasised that NAFDAC took the drastic step of temporarily closing down the market to conduct comprehensive regulatory activities. The closure remained in effect until an agreement was reached with all stakeholders in the market, accompanied by signed undertakings pledging that the market would never be used for such illicit activities again. Adeyeye sternly warned about the severe health risks associated with consuming adulterated alcohol, citing potential adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness, dizziness, blue-tinged or pale skin, irregular or slow breathing, low body temperature, unconsciousness, kidney and liver failure, or even death.

     “Methanol, a substance which can be used in fake vodka, may cause permanent blindness. World Health Organisation (WHO) in their Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health estimated that more than three million people died all over the world as a result of alcohol poisoning. Furthermore, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) ascertained that one of every 10 cancer cases in Nigeria can be traced to Alcohol and 4.7 per cent of overall cancer cases in Nigeria in 2019 can be attributed to consumption of adulterated alcohol,” she disclosed.

     Encouraging Nigerians to stay vigilant, the Director-General urged consumers to consistently scrutinise branded drinks carefully to distinguish genuine products from counterfeits before consumption. “NAFDAC wishes to advice that the members of the public should shine their eyes during this yuletide season. We are using this medium to appeal to Nigerians to buy only NAFDAC registered drinks from reputable and licenced retailers, bars and supermarkets. If the product is being sold well below its normal price, or doesn’t seem to include normal taxes on liquors, then it is probably fake. Check for poor quality packaging, spelling mistakes and unusually shaped bottles. Look for the contact information and address of the manufacturer. If it is missing, the alcohol is fake.

     “Inspect the seal on the bottle. If the seal is broken or damaged, then the contents might have been interfered with and are not safe to drink. Check for fake bar codes. If you have an app on your mobile that scans bar codes, scan it and see if it’s listed as the correct product and beware of bad smells! If it smells like paint stripper or nail polish remover, then it probably is.”

     NAFDAC advises the public to stay vigilant during this festive season. “We appeal to Nigerians to purchase only NAFDAC-registered drinks from reputable and licensed retailers, bars, and supermarkets. If the product is being sold significantly below its normal price or lacks the usual taxes on liquors, it is likely fake.

    “Look for poor-quality packaging, spelling errors, and oddly shaped bottles.Verify the contact information and address of the manufacturer; if missing, the alcohol may be fake. Examine the bottle seal; if broken or damaged, the contents may have been tampered with and are unsafe. Check for counterfeit barcodes; scanning with a barcode app can help verify authenticity. Lastly, beware of unpleasant odors. If the drink smells like paint stripper or nail polish remover, it likely is fake.”

  • NAFDAC shuts Eziukwu market

    NAFDAC shuts Eziukwu market

    • Confiscates, destroys N750m counterfeited drinks

    National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sealed off Eziukwu market (Cemetery market) in Aba, Abia State.

    The closure, without a specified reopening date, was initiated, following the discovery and interception of counterfeiters engaged in the production of a range of beverages, including wines, soft drinks and consumables.

    At a media interactive session on the agency’s 2023 journey yesterday, Director General (DG), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, said based on an intelligence tip-off, NAFDAC conducted extensive weeks of intelligence gathering and data collation “on the activities of these merchants of death.”

    The effort resulted in a sting operation, carried out in collaboration with other security agencies, leading to the apprehension of the culprits and the seizure of their counterfeited products, she said.

    Adeyeye said the agency used intelligence gathering and a collaborative sting operation because the problem was extensive in scope, involving audacious perpetrators.

    She said: “It is worthy of note that this dastard activity has been going on for a long time. They operate like a cartel threatening anyone who dares challenge them.

    “Some of the nefarious activities of the counterfeiters included the manufacturing of all kinds of adulterated products, especially different kinds of wine from a wide variety of brands, ranging from Seaman Schnapps to Henessy, Four Cousins, Carlo Rossi, Jenney, Chelsea London Dry Gin, Schnapp Dry Gin, McDowells, Black Labels, Gordons, Martell, Campari, Smirnoff ice, Eva Non-Alcoholic Drink, Evra Non-Alcoholic Drink, Cartel and others.

    “There is also date revalidation for expired products such as Peak milk, Powdered milk, Ketchups, Yoghurt, Coca Cola products, packaging of fake and substandard products, which are later sold to unsuspecting members of the public for consumption.

    “Because of the extensive operation, the agency raided over 240 shops- turned factories where the harmful products were being produced and marketed.

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    “The shops-turned factories are very filthy. Water from very unhygienic sources is used. Also used are harmful chemicals, saccharin, colouring, dirty recycled bottles and cloned packaging materials of other brands.

    “The adulteration of alcoholic beverages by criminals in the country is done by mixing of cheaper sources of sugar and starch, besides grapes or fruit, among other harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption.

    “Over 1,500 cartons of fake and substandard products were destroyed during the operation, while 300 hundred cartons were evacuated to NAFDAC warehouse.”

    Adeyeye stressed the need for consumers to be vigilant, to avoid drinking adulterated alcohol that could cause nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness and dizziness, blue tinged or pale skin, irregular or slow breathing, low body temperature, unconsciousness or passing out.

    “It can also lead to kidney and liver failure or even death. Methanol, a substance which can be used in fake vodka, may cause permanent blindness.”

  • No going back on banned pesticides, says NAFDAC

    No going back on banned pesticides, says NAFDAC

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has declared that there will be no reversal in its decision to ban and phase out some pesticides in the country.

    The agency has also revealed its unwavering commitment to intensify efforts aimed at lifting the ban on Nigerian food exports, especially beans.

    During a media interactive session on the agency’s 2023 journey on Monday, December 18, the Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, stated that with modest progress in the period under review, the agency is determined to achieve Maturity Level 4 for both the agency and the country, among other set targets for the upcoming year.

    Emphasizing the irreversibility of the banned pesticides, the DG affirmed that the Veterinary Medicines and Allied Products Directorate has recently initiated the phase-out action plan for certain pesticide active ingredients.

    According to her, the initial pesticide facing a ban, Paraquat, will be enforced from January 1, 2024.

    Following that, the ban on Chlorpyrifos is set to take effect from November 1, 2024, and the ban on Atrazine will come into effect from January 1, 2025.

    In addition, the DG said 12 active ingredients are on the ban/phase-out table. These include Carbofuran, Clothianidin, Diquat Dibromide, Diquate Dichloride, Ametryn, Anthraquinone, Carbendazim, Chlorothalonil, Oxadiargyle, Thiacloprid, Methomyl and Thiamethoxam.

    According to her, four others – Fipronil, Permethrin, Cyfluthrin and Amitraz are on reclassification.

    Expressing concern over the detrimental impact of the ban on Nigerian food exports, particularly the inability to export produce like beans to Europe, the Americas, and other regions, Adeyeye emphasized that NAFDAC is steadfast in its efforts to alter this narrative.

    She said: “NAFDAC is assiduously putting in place processes that will result in lifting of ban on food exports such as Beans.

    “The efforts include visiting UK counterparts (UK Veterinary and UK Food Safety Agency), working with sister agencies and strengthening our processes, including developing a regulation that serves and legal framework”.

    Regarding the modest achievements accomplished in the outgoing year, the DG said that regulatory approvals were granted for the malaria vaccine, MpPox, and Human papillomavirus (HPV) during the year.

    She noted that NAFDAC successfully fulfilled its mandate through meticulous adherence to due diligence, the commitment of its workforce, and collaboration with both local and international partners in executing its responsibilities.

    Adeyeye pointed out that the attainment of ML3 and the Quality Management System (QMS) was made possible through various audits by relevant global bodies, saying, “The annual QMS Audit aims to ensure continuous improvement in our processes and customer service.”

    “The Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT) World Health Organization (WHO) Audit team visited NAFDAC to monitor three regulatory processes under Regulatory Inspection, Market Authorization, and Laboratory Testing.

    “We have thus achieved a successful WHO GMP inspection observed audit and have since rolled out our roadmap for the attainment of ML4 by next year”.

    She also stated that the recent WHO pre-qualification of the Yaba Central Drug Control Laboratory (CDCL) has officially elevated Nigeria to the exclusive group of countries with WHO certification.

    The achievement not only grants global recognition to Nigeria but also confirms the Yaba laboratory’s adherence to international standards for drugs originating from Nigeria intended for export.

    She also highlighted the agency’s strong reliance on collaboration with similar global agencies to enhance its operations, saying, “NAFDAC has made herself available to capacity building of other sister agencies in Africa for one regulatory function or the other.

    She said: “Botswana and Uganda came to understudy NAFDAC on Traceability.

    “This is also called Reliance. NAFDAC herself is developing relationships with other regulatory agencies for information sharing and capacity building. 

    “Examples of such agencies include US FDA; UK VET; TGA; MHRA, South Korea NRA; Saudi Arabia FDA; South Africa SAHPRA; Egypt EDA LAUNCH OF NAFDAC ONLINE TRAINING SCHOOL Training is ongoing in NAFDAC, local and international.

    “To further enhance the capacity of the staff and bring training closer, the Online Training School was launched in October 2023.”

    The DG noted that the agency is conscious of the evolving global technology space and is not ready to be left behind which has resulted in the digitization of its system.

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    In spite of the financial challenges facing the agency, she mentioned that the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Unit has initiated the digitization of a well-organized database encompassing NAFDAC-approved human medicines from 2018 to the present.

    The database includes a comprehensive Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) Classification based on the WHO ATC system.

    Additionally, the agency has launched the registered drug product database system, accessible on both the web and mobile application platforms.

    “This would place the needed information on drugs registered by the Agency at the fingertips of the public. Investigation and Enforcement Directorate has been busy with joint inspection/seizures and destruction exercise of banned or unregistered products”. 

    She also affirmed that the agency met its obligations in surveillance and enforcement, with the Directorate destroying 135 truckloads of fake, counterfeit, and spurious seized products.

    Furthermore, damaged or expired products voluntarily submitted by stakeholders were disposed of, amounting to an estimated street value of approximately N16b.

    NAFDAC conducted numerous raids in the South-East and South-South regions, spanning nine states, resulting in the recovery of counterfeit Diageo products valued at over N38m.

    Additionally, in Lagos State and Abuja, several locations were raided, leading to the recovery and seizure of counterfeit products valued at over N200m.

    She mentioned that a collaborative sting operation conducted at Eziukwu Market (Cemetery Market) in Aba, Abia State, resulted in the identification and destruction of counterfeit alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks valued at over N750m.

    Furthermore, 10 suspects were apprehended and are slated for prosecution, while emphasizing that the sealed market would remain closed until a commitment is obtained from the traders to comply with the rules.

  • NAFDAC storms Abia market, confiscates, destroys N750m counterfeited drinks

    NAFDAC storms Abia market, confiscates, destroys N750m counterfeited drinks

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sealed off the Eziukwu Market (Cemetery Market) in Aba, Abia state.

    The closure, without a specified reopening date, was initiated following the discovery and interception of counterfeiters engaged in the production of a range of beverages, including wines, soft drinks, and consumables.

    In a media interactive session on the agency’s 2023 journey on Monday, December 18, Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye revealed that based on an intelligence tip-off, NAFDAC conducted extensive weeks of intelligence gathering and data collation on the activities of these merchants of death. 

    This effort resulted in a sting operation, carried out in collaboration with other security agencies, leading to the apprehension of the culprits and the seizure of their counterfeited products, she noted.

    She mentioned that the agency had to resort to intelligence gathering and a collaborative sting operation because the problem is extensive in scope involving audacious perpetrators.

    She said: “It is worthy of note that this dastard activity has been going on for a long time and they operate like a cartel threatening anyone who dares challenge them.

    Read Also: NAFDAC moves against sales of measured milk, cereals, others in open markets

    “Some of the nefarious activities of the counterfeiters included the manufacturing of all kinds of adulterated products especially different kinds of wine from a wide variety of brands ranging from Seaman Schnapps, Henessy, Four Cousins, Carlo Rossi, Jenney, Chelsea London Dry Gin, Schnapp Dry Gin, McDowells, Black Labels, Gordons, Martell, Campari, Smirnoff ice, Eva Non-Alcoholic Drink, Evra Non-Alcoholic Drink, Cartel, and others. 

    “There is also date revalidation for expired products like Peak milk, Powdered milk, Ketchups, Yoghurt, Coca Cola products, packaging of fake and substandard products, which are later sold to unsuspecting members of the public for consumption. 

    “Because of the extensive operation, the agency raided over 240 shops- turned factories where the harmful products were being produced and marketed. 

    “The shops-turned factories are very filthy, using water from very unhygienic sources, harmful chemicals, saccharin, colouring, dirty recycled bottles, and cloned packaging materials of other brands. 

    “The adulteration of alcoholic beverages by criminal elements in the country is done by mixing of cheaper sources of sugar and starch besides grapes or fruit, among other harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption. 

    “Over 1500 cartons of the fake and substandard products were destroyed during the operation while 300 hundred cartons were evacuated to NAFDAC warehouse. 

    “The street value of the confiscated and destroyed fake products is estimated at over seven hundred and fifty million naira only. (N750,000,000). 

    “Ten people were arrested on arrival at the scene of the crime and will be charged to court after thorough investigation.

    “Due to the sheer magnitude of illegality going on in the section of the market, NAFDAC had to shut the entire market down for thorough regulatory activity until an agreement was reached with all stakeholders in the market and undertaken signed that the market will never be used for such nefarious activities anymore”.

    Emphasizing the risks posed by counterfeiters to Nigerians, Adeyeye stressed the importance of consumers being vigilant, observant, and unafraid to ask questions about the products they are purchasing.

    She said: “Drinking adulterated alcohol can cause nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness, and dizziness, blue tinged or pale skin, irregular or slow breathing, low body temperature, unconsciousness or passing out. 

    “It can also lead to kidney and liver failure or even DEATH. Methanol, a substance which can be used in fake vodka, may cause permanent blindness. 

    “WHO in their Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health estimated that more than three million people died all over the world as a result of alcohol poisoning. 

    “Furthermore, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) ascertained that one of every 10 cancer cases in Nigeria can be traced to Alcohol and 4.7 percent of overall cancer cases in Nigeria in 2019 can be attributed to consumption of adulterated alcohol.

    “While urging Nigerians to remain vigilant, the agency is also tasking consumers to always scrutinize branded drinks to distinguish them from counterfeits before consuming them”. 

    The DG advised consumers should not be afraid to ask questions about the product they are buying as precautionary measure, saying, “The members of the public should shine their eyes during this yuletide season and think about the “4 Ps” before buying of alcohol.

    “Place: Only buy only NAFDAC registered drinks from reputable and licenced retailers, bars and supermarkets. 

    “Price: If the product is being sold well below its normal price, or doesn’t seem to include normal taxes on liquors, then it is probably fake.  

    “Packaging: Check for poor quality packaging, spelling mistakes and unusually shaped bottles. 

    “Look for the contact information and address of the manufacturer. If it is missing, the alcohol is fake. Inspect the seal on the bottle. 

    “If the seal is broken or damaged, then the contents might have been interfered with and are not safe to drink. Check for fake bar codes. 

    “If you have an app on your mobile that scans bar codes, scan it and see if it’s listed as the correct product.Product: Beware of bad smells! 

    “If it smells like paint stripper or nail polish remover, then it probably is!NAFDAC will continue to ensure that the level of counterfeit products nationwide is brought to the nearest minimum so that our people will continue to consume only healthy and safe products. 

    “We wish to reiterate that in line with our mandate to rid the county of fake and substandard products, we shall be on the trail of these evil counterfeiters, and bring them to book. 

    “The public is enjoined to report any suspicious activity of illegal producers of adulterated products or similar activities to the nearest NAFDAC office nationwide.”

  • NAFDAC moves against sales of measured milk, cereals, others in open markets

    NAFDAC moves against sales of measured milk, cereals, others in open markets

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) said it would arrest importers and sellers of unbranded cereals and other food items of industrial sizes in the open markets. 

    The agency expressed strong disapproval, stating that some manufacturers and their suppliers have been discovered engaging in the importation of approved bulk food items, which subsequently make their way into open markets.

    The agency observed that this practice could originate either from the manufacturing plants or their suppliers, posing health hazards to unsuspecting consumers due to the dispensing method in unsanitary conditions.

    The Director General (DG) of the agency, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, stated that the bypassing of its approval is unacceptable, warning that starting from 2024, the agency has implemented additional stringent measures to eradicate such occurrences.

    She said NAFDAC will adopt a more rigorous approach in granting permits for the importation of bulk food raw materials starting from 2024.

    In a statement released by Sayo Akintola, the agency’s Resident Media Consultant, on Sunday, Adeyeye addressed stakeholders during the end-of-year open dialogue and feedback session with food manufacturing companies, where she explained that the influx of these items into the country occurs because companies have sought permission to utilize them in the production of their NAFDAC registered products.

    The DG who was represented by the Director of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (FSAN), Mrs. Eva Edwards, said, “We are concerned that we find these items being sold in measures, scoops in the open markets. 

    “So we are looking at that process of issuing permits for bulk food raw materials very critically”.

    She disclosed that the regulatory agency has put in place additional measures for assessing and verifying the utilisation records of each company that applies for import permits to import bulk food raw materials.

    ‘’We don’t want to just see your stock cards, we want to know what you imported in the previous year. 

    “We want to know what you used because there are some calculations that we need to make” she noted. 

    According to the statement, Adeyeye reminded the manufacturers that the NAFDAC is not unaware of the ingredients that are used in their products, 

    She revealed that while in one-on-one discussions with some companies, it was discovered that sometimes companies request far more than they require because they feel that the quantities are going to be cut by the agency. 

    However, she noted that if the manufacturers can show records of the utilization of the quantities requested in a previous cycle, that it was used, saying, “We will check and do our calculations and if we realise that yes that company is doing business to those levels, we look at the quantity requested and grant approval’’. 

    The DG though acknowledged that businesses exist to make a profit, saying, “When you are projecting for the coming year, obviously you are also thinking about doing more business. There is always some allowance for that.

    “That we don’t want to see is that diversion into the open market. We don’t want people measuring milk and cereals in cups and measures in 2024. 

    “It is an unhygienic practice. It is not good for the general population in terms of food safety and hygiene”. 

    While affirming that NAFDAC would continue to advocate for the support of her partners and stakeholders in the quest for better, safer, healthier, more nutritious food, Adeyeye added, ‘’We all stand to benefit from this as we are all consumers’’.

    In his remarks, the chairman of, the Technical Committee of the Association of Food, Beverage, and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE), Mr Fred Chiazor, commended NAFDAC for its proactiveness in responding to developments in the industry, saying, ‘’FSAN as a Directorate sees the stakeholders as partners and not as criminals. 

    “It is a Directorate that wants improvement, and this is a win-win. We are happy that you are doing what you should be doing to grow the industries’’.

    He said that NAFDAC and the stakeholders would continue to partner to find areas of better collaboration and improvement in the coming year.

    More than 50 food manufacturing companies were at the forum. 

  • Product adulteration: Traders to lose shops as NAFDAC plans to prosecute suspects

    Product adulteration: Traders to lose shops as NAFDAC plans to prosecute suspects

    The traders caught and owners of shops used for the manufacturing, production and storage of fake and adulterated products, who were arrested and uncovered by the officials of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) at Cemetery Market, Aba, will lose ownership of their shops.

    This was disclosed in an exclusive phone interview with Mr. Martins Iluyomade, director of NAFDAC,  Southeast  Zone, yesterday.

    Iluyomade, who held a news conference in Aba, gave the number of shops raided as 270, saying 10 suspects were arrested. He said the Federal Government agency was in discussions with the leadership and stakeholders of the market, adding that the agency would prosecute some of the suspects they had arrested so far.

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    The Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, in a phone interview, said: “We are working towards reopening the market.

    “People’s lives are paramount to money. It is an illegality and a criminal offence for people to fake products.

    “But we are doing everything possible to ensure that the market is in full operation once again.

    “The government is not happy about it and like I said, we are working towards reopening it.”

  • NAFDAC joins WHO prequalification status exclusive club

    NAFDAC joins WHO prequalification status exclusive club

    Nigeria took a significant stride toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UCH) as the Central Drug Control Laboratory (CDCL) in Yaba, Lagos received the World Health Organization (WHO) Prequalification Status, it was revealed on Thursday.

    The certification, conveyed to the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) via email from the WHO Prequalification Inspection team on September 15, 2023, provides global recognition and affirms the Yaba laboratory’s compliance with international standards for drugs originating from Nigeria for export.

    Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, who described the accomplishment as a significant milestone at a press briefing in Abuja, could not hide her elation said, “This is not only a triumph for the agency but also for Nigeria, very few laboratories in the world have the apex status of WHO Prequalification.”

    Currently, only approximately seven countries in Africa can claim to have the WHO Prequalification for the CDCL.

    While emphasizing the extensive efforts involved in achieving the milestone, the DG said, “The WHO Prequalification of the CDCL is a testament to NAFDAC’s unwavering commitment to meeting international standards of excellence in drug quality control and regulation.

    “Our journey towards this milestone actually started since 2010, but with renewed efforts and more commitment to attempts by our management and Federal Government in the last four years, we have finally achieved this goal”.

    According to her, the implications of the certification are numerous which is a testimony to the commitment of the Nigerian government to the wellbeing of Nigerians.

    She said: “This prestigious recognition brings numerous benefits to CDCL, NAFDAC, and, most importantly, to the Nigerian people.

    “Key benefits of the WHO Prequalification of NAFDAC CDCL include Global Recognition. WHO Prequalification Status is a globally recognized badge of honor that attests to the CDCL’s competence in assuring the quality of pharmaceutical products.

    “It places CDCL among an elite group of laboratories worldwide known for their excellence in drug analysis.

    “Enhanced Pharmaceutical Quality is guaranteed. The pre-qualification of CDCL ensures that the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines tested and certified by the laboratory meet the highest international standards.

    “This directly translates to improved access to safe and effective medicines for the Nigerian populace.

    “CDCL’s new status opens doors to international collaboration with regulatory bodies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and global health organizations.

    “This collaboration will strengthen Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector and contribute to advancing healthcare access in the region. Advancing Public Health:

    “The CDCL plays a pivotal role in safeguarding public health by ensuring that substandard and counterfeit medicines do not reach the market.

    “With WHO Prequalification, its impact in this regard will be even more profound, protecting Nigerian patients from potentially harmful products. Streamlined Regulatory Processes: WHO Prequalification can lead to streamlined regulatory processes, facilitating the faster approval of essential medicines in Nigeria and beyond.

    “Enhanced credibility which this brings is no mean feat. This prestigious status enhances NAFDAC’s credibility on the global stage and reinforces the trust of stakeholders, including pharmaceutical manufacturers, healthcare providers, and patients. Advancing Nigeria’s Healthcare System:

    “The recognition of the NAFDAC CDCL by WHO is a significant milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system, ensuring that Nigerians have access to high-quality healthcare products”.

    The DG said, for NAFDAC as a regulator, the WHO certification further enhances its pedigree as it works towards Maturity Level 4, to become a world-listed Authority.

    Read Also: Tinubu, governors to sign health pact with WHO

    “We are excited about the possibilities that this recognition brings and look forward to continuing our work to uphold the highest standards of pharmaceutical quality control and regulation.

    “NAFDAC remains committed to its mission of safeguarding public health by ensuring that only safe, effective, and quality medicines and healthcare products are available to all Nigerians.

    “We look forward to leveraging this achievement to strengthen our partnerships, enhance healthcare access, and contribute to the overall improvement of public health in Nigeria and the West African region”, she noted.

    In his remarks, the Chairman of the Agency’s Governing Council, Mufutau Bolaji Yahaya, who pledged further support to the agency assured that the Council would continue to work on the commitment of the government as the Agency works towards achieving the same feat for its other 6 laboratories while targeting ML 4.

  • NAFDAC will not drop standards, vows DG

    NAFDAC will not drop standards, vows DG

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has declared that it will not lower the standards even as its commitment to protect and promote the global competitiveness of Nigerian indigenous manufacturing companies remained unwavering. 

    The reiterated commitment followed a facility tour of the first In-vitro Diagnostics (IVD) manufacturing site of a health technology company, Colexa Biosensor Limited, in Lagos by the agency’s Director General (DG), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye.

    The company is the first to produce glucometer, and medical devices for early diagnosis and management of diabetes. 

    A glucometer, also known as a blood glucose meter or blood sugar meter is a medical device (In-vitro diagnostic) used to measure the approximate concentration of glucose in the blood. It is a key element for home blood glucose monitoring.

    She said that the manufacture of blood glucose meters and strips in Nigeria will revolutionize healthcare and make a significant impact in the lives of people living with diabetes in Africa and beyond. 

    The DG, however, emphasized the need for the continuous availability of high-quality products that meet world-class standards to be able to strive favorably with competition from Europe and the United States at relatively affordable prices.

    Read Also: NAFDAC alerts Nigerians to fake injection in circulation

    In a statement on Sunday by the agency’s Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, the DG was quoted as saying that as a regulatory body, NAFDAC would continue to monitor the progress of the company and ensure that it remains compliant with good manufacturing practices (GMP) and other global best practices.‘

    She said: “I will in addition be looking at FDA standards because it’s accepted anywhere in the world’’, she said, adding that the agency would collaborate with the company for the necessary assistance in their regulatory compliance, as it does with others to provide the needed guidance.

    “For an African medical device company, the feat would go a long way in improving the health of nations through access to quality, innovative, technology-enabled healthcare solutions for the prevention, early diagnosis, and management of diseases.

    “NAFDAC will only allow the export of quality products with proven safety and efficacy.

    “Regarding procurement by international partners, it is quality that is going to sell the product. NAFDAC has a tiered categorization scheme where the Agency has risk-categorized companies into Low, Medium, and High categories.

    “The Agency is working with international partners such as UNICEF to understand and use this approach for procurement of some medical products and ready-to-use-therapeutic foods from our local manufacturers’’, the DG remarked.

    She, however, advised the company to focus more attention on the local market by making quality products that are readily available to Nigerians before venturing into the global market with its 12 locations in Africa, including UAE and UK

    While urging the company to constitute a research team that will go all out to monitor the selectivity and sensitivity rate once it enters the market in Nigeria.

    On the step should go hand in hand with the marketing, the DG, added, “The results of this study must be guided by and shared with NAFDAC.

    She assured that the process would witness tremendous improvement when NAFDAC attains WHO Maturity Level 4, adding that at that point, there will be little time spent for pre-qualification for applications submitted post-attainment.

    Earlier in his speech, the Chairman of Colexa Biosensor Limited, Samson Ogunjimi disclosed that the company had provided over 5 million tests of HIV/Syphilis Combo tests to the HIV program, helping to increase testing in pregnant women and saving lives.

    He added that the company was also the first to introduce the COVID-19 rapid antigen test in Nigeria and provided various platforms for Point-of-Care (POC) COVID testing.