The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee on Drugs and Illicit Trafficking has called for enhanced collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to strengthen regulatory and legislative measures against illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse in Nigeria.
The Committee, led by Hon. Timehin Adelegbe, made the call during a courtesy visit to the Agency, where members commended NAFDAC’s leadership for its sustained efforts in combating drug abuse and safeguarding public health.
Speaking during the engagement, Adelegbe underscored the far-reaching impact of drug and alcohol abuse on individuals, families and national security. He noted that the visit formed part of the Committee’s oversight responsibilities and was aimed at deepening institutional collaboration to develop effective legislation capable of curbing illicit drug activities and ensuring proper regulation of medicines.
He further pledged the Committee’s legislative backing to strengthen NAFDAC’s operational capacity and address regulatory gaps identified in the course of its mandate.
In her response, the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, expressed appreciation for the Committee’s support and reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to protecting public health.
Adeyeye highlighted ongoing enforcement challenges, particularly in the regulation of alcohol packaging, and raised concerns over the growing incidence of underage alcohol consumption. She stressed the need for sustained stakeholder engagement and stronger legislative support to bolster enforcement mechanisms and shield Nigerians from the health and social consequences of substance abuse.
