NAFDAC’s Prof. Adeyeye Raises Alarm Over Critical Shortage Of Personnel

The Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, has expressed concerns over the agency’s understaffing, which is hindering its regulatory responsibilities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking during the unveiling of NAFDAC’s 2025 strategic plan at a press briefing in Lagos, Adeyeye emphasized the urgent need to expand the agency’s workforce to meet global regulatory standards and effectively oversee food, drugs, and other regulated products.

In a statement shared via the agency’s social media handle, Adeyeye revealed that the agency is operating with about 2,000 staff, far below the required capacity of 10,000 based on Nigeria’s population. To address this gap, NAFDAC plans to engage volunteers while also prioritizing staff welfare and professional development.

“NAFDAC will focus on addressing maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) challenges by prioritizing the regulation of essential maternal health products such as oxytocin, tranexamic acid, and carbetocin to combat postpartum hemorrhage and reduce maternal mortality,” she said.

She added that pediatric medicines like antimalarials and antibiotics would also receive special attention to ensure their safety and efficacy. The agency will incentivize manufacturers to produce quality pediatric products and will conduct market surveys to monitor MNCH product quality nationwide. Additionally, the regulation of therapeutic foods for malnourished children will be intensified.

Adeyeye also disclosed plans to strengthen collaboration with stakeholders, including the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, the Nigeria Customs Service, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, to close loopholes for substandard products and enhance public health protection.

“Our mission is to safeguard the health of the nation through effective regulation,” she said. “This strategic plan is our roadmap for achieving that goal in 2025 and beyond.”

The Director General reiterated NAFDAC’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate and ensuring the safety of the nation’s public health.