Customs, NAFDAC Inaugurate Implementation Committee to Enforce 2024 MoU on Drug Regulation

Customs, NAFDAC Inaugurate Implementation Committee to Enforce 2024 MoU on Drug Regulation

Abuja, July 10, 2025 — The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have formally inaugurated a joint Implementation Committee to begin the full execution of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two agencies in November 2024.

The milestone was marked during an official visit by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, to the NAFDAC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. The visit, which included senior officials from both agencies, signifies a move from dialogue to coordinated action in combating the influx of counterfeit and substandard pharmaceutical products and harmful substances into the country.

The MoU, originally signed on November 14, 2024, during the second day of the CGC’s Annual Conference in Abuja, commits both agencies to collaborative enforcement, data sharing, training, and harmonized operations in the interest of public health and national security.

Speaking at the inauguration, CGC Adeniyi described the launch of the committee as a "critical next step" in translating the MoU from paper to practice.

“Every time we meet, your position has always been clear—collaborate for stronger outcomes. This implementation committee will now drive our shared vision to protect Nigerians from harmful, unregulated substances,” he said.

The Customs boss disclosed that the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the committee had already been developed and would guide its work in key areas such as:

• Development of a joint work plan
• Coordination of training and communication
• Harmonization of operational procedures
• Monitoring and evaluation
• Identification of challenges and formulation of actionable solutions

He also emphasized that the agreement is legally binding, governed under Nigerian law, and aimed at delivering measurable improvements in regulatory enforcement and public safety.

On her part, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, welcomed the development and commended both agencies for their commitment to the partnership. She reiterated that cooperation with Customs is vital in eliminating fake and dangerous products from circulation in Nigeria.

“This committee represents a shift from discussion to practical collaboration. It’s a necessary step to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerians,” Prof. Adeyeye said.

She pledged NAFDAC’s full support for the implementation committee and its mandate, stressing that stronger regulatory enforcement can only be achieved through strategic inter-agency alignment.

The newly inaugurated committee includes members from both NCS and NAFDAC, and will be chaired by Olakunle Olaniran of NAFDAC, with Smart Akande, the Director of Legal Services and Legal Adviser to the Nigeria Customs Service, serving as Deputy Chairman.

The initiative marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen border control, eliminate unsafe goods, and enhance public health outcomes through institutional synergy.

– END –
Reported by [Your News Platform]