The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, has renewed its collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to intensify the fight against counterfeit and substandard drugs in Nigeria.
The renewed partnership took place 26 August, at the courtesy visit paid to the unit by NAFDAC officials.
The NCS, through a statement sited by Pharmanewsonline also disclosed its formal handover of expired pharmaceuticals worth ₦3.7 billion to NAFDAC.
The Head of Unit, FOU Zone A, Comptroller Muhammed Shuaibu, during the visit stressed that the partnership reflects the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, who has consistently emphasised inter-agency collaboration.
Shuaibu said: “When our CGC first assumed office, he emphasised consolidation and collaboration. There is already an existing process, and we only have to build on it. Our synergy is not just with NAFDAC, but with every government agency. I want to assure you that whatever agreement is signed at the top, we at the strategic level follow it up. The truth is, there is an urgent need to eradicate substandard products.”
The Director of Investigation and Enforcement (NAFDAC), Dr Martin Iluyomade, commended CGC Adeniyi’s visionary leadership, describing him as “a man with excellence in his DNA.”
He also stated that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NAFDAC and Customs has strengthened joint efforts to protect public health.
The Director of Ports Inspection (NAFDAC), Dr Olakunle Olaniran, also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to aligning with global standards.
He insisted that there is no longer room for falsified products in the country, warning perpetrators that they will be compelled to invest in legitimate businesses.
The highlight of the courtesy visit was the official handover of expired pharmaceuticals worth ₦3.7 billion to NAFDAC, while reaffirming the joint resolve of both agencies to rid the Nigerian market of counterfeit and unsafe medicines.
