The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have resolved to deepen their collaborative oversight of pharmaceutical and consumable products manufactured within the country's Free Trade Zones. This decision was reached during a courtesy visit by NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, to her counterpart, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, at the NEPZA headquarters in Abuja yesterday.
Strengthening Regulatory Cooperation
Prof. Adeyeye stated that her visit was aimed at bolstering cooperation and partnerships to enable NAFDAC to effectively execute its regulatory duties. These include overseeing the importation, exportation, production, and distribution of pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics by entities operating within free trade zones. She underscored the significance of the free trade zone scheme to Nigeria's industrialization and economic growth, emphasizing the need to streamline and monitor the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals and food products exported to the customs territory from these zones.
Commitment to Quality Assurance
In response, Dr. Ogunyemi expressed appreciation for NAFDAC's initiative to address alleged anomalies in the delivery of quality medical supplies and consumables from the free trade zones. He reiterated NEPZA's commitment to working closely with NAFDAC to ensure that all products meet the required standards before reaching consumers. The two agencies plan to develop a joint framework for regular inspections, data sharing, and coordinated enforcement actions to enhance regulatory efficiency and protect public health.
