NAFDAC Responds To Concerns Over Importation Of Antileprosy Drugs

NAFDAC Responds To Concerns Over Importation Of Antileprosy Drugs

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has clarified its position on the importation of Rifampicin, an antileprosy drug, into Nigeria. The agency responded to a BBC report that claimed NAFDAC had delayed or blocked the importation of vital leprosy medications………..READ MORE

NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, explained that the agency’s processes ensure rigorous testing and compliance with regulatory standards before any drug can be imported into Nigeria. She clarified that Rifampicin was delayed because the manufacturer failed to provide the necessary documentation, including the Certificate of Pharmaceutical Products (CoPP), which guarantees that medicines meet international safety and efficacy standards.

Upon receiving a request from the World Health Organization (WHO) to waive the documentation requirement, NAFDAC conducted a laboratory evaluation of the consignment. After confirming the quality of the drug, NAFDAC approved the shipment for export to Nigeria.

Adeyeye emphasized that NAFDAC’s mission is to protect public health and ensure that only safe, effective, and high-quality medicines are available in Nigeria. Additionally, the agency is working to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported drugs by strengthening local pharmaceutical manufacturing.