The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has taken a significant stride in enhancing drug safety in Nigeria by introducing a comprehensive database known as the ‘NAFDAC Green Book,’ containing information on 6,432 registered pharmaceutical products available for sale and distribution. This initiative aims to empower the public to easily verify the authenticity of drugs through online access.
Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director General of NAFDAC, announced the launch during a media briefing, underscoring the agency’s dedication to eliminating the sale and consumption of substandard pharmaceutical products. As part of this commitment, NAFDAC’s enforcement directorate carried out the destruction of 135 truckloads of counterfeit, fake, and spurious products, as well as damaged or expired items voluntarily surrendered by stakeholders. The estimated street value of the destroyed products amounted to approximately N16 billion.
Key points to note:
– Adeyeye emphasized that the ‘NAFDAC Green Book’ would be accessible to the public starting from January next year, allowing individuals to use their Android mobile phones for drug verification.
– This move is strategically designed to enhance transparency and bolster consumer safety within the pharmaceutical sector.
– Adeyeye provided an update on recent accomplishments, highlighting the prequalification of the Central Drug Control Laboratory (CDCL) in Yaba, Lagos State, by the World Health Organization.
– Constructed by NAFDAC at a cost of N4.5 billion, the CDCL represents a significant achievement in Nigeria’s pursuit of drug safety and local manufacturing capacity.
– Adeyeye shed light on NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts to combat the sale of adulterated pharmaceutical products, citing joint inspection, seizure, and destruction exercises across various states by the Investigation and Enforcement Directorate.
– She attributed the rise in counterfeit drugs to the challenging economic climate, fostering the production and sale of substandard products.
– Despite these challenges, Adeyeye expressed optimism about Nigeria’s accomplishments, citing a 35 per cent local manufacturing capacity for essential drugs.
– With the prequalification of the Yaba laboratory and ongoing efforts to achieve WHO Maturity Level 4, Adeyeye anticipates a significant increase in local manufacturing capacity for pharmaceutical products.
– NAFDAC faces challenges in digitalizing its processes, prompting the agency to seek assistance from developed countries.
– Adeyeye revealed plans to phase out the production and sale of alcohol in sachets by January 2024. Acknowledging the need for increased staffing and ongoing training initiatives, NAFDAC remains resolute in maintaining high standards and safeguarding public health.
