The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a stern warning to customs agents, urging them to refrain from complicity in the illegal importation of syringes. NAFDAC Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, emphasized the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health by ensuring that only regulated products and production systems deemed safe reach consumers.
In response to alerts from the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) by the European Union (EU), Adeyeye highlighted a concerning trend. Many products rejected by the EU, having failed necessary tests, lacked the required documentation and certifications. This revelation underscores the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address the unscrupulous behavior of some exporters. Adeyeye stressed the importance of ensuring that only quality, certified products are exported, urging licensed custom agents to educate their members on the significance of proper assessment and documentation for customs clearance.
During the event, Adeyeye’s call for collaboration received support from Mr. Emenike Nwokochi, the National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA). Nwokochi expressed his concern about the misrepresentation of Nigerian agricultural products abroad. He lamented the shame of purchasing yams labeled as originating from Ghana when Nigeria is the largest producer of the commodity. Additionally, he highlighted the economic challenges Nigeria faces, emphasizing the inability to support the Naira as it continues to depreciate.
Despite the economic downturn, Nwokochi pledged ANLCA’s commitment to partnering with NAFDAC in achieving their shared goal of fostering the nation’s economic development. The collaborative efforts between regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders become crucial in ensuring the quality and safety of products for both domestic consumption and international trade. As the nation grapples with economic challenges, such partnerships underscore the significance of collective responsibility in building a robust and resilient economy.
