A legislative proposal intended to create a unified legal foundation for all goods monitored by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has passed its second reading in the Senate.
This initiative aims to replace outdated legislation, specifically the Food, Drug and Related Products Act and the Food and Drugs Act of 2004, with a consolidated Food, Medical Products and Other Regulated Products Act of 2026. Sponsored by Senator Umar Sadiq Suleiman, the bill seeks to modernize regulatory language and address gaps in the current framework.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has directed the Senate Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary) to review the proposal and return with findings within one month. Senator Suleiman argued that the existing laws are ill-equipped for modern advancements, such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence in medicine, and complex global supply chains.
The updated bill proposes expanding NAFDAC’s oversight to include medical devices, vaccines, tobacco, chemicals, and animal feeds. It introduces more rigorous safety protocols, including mandatory product recalls, improved traceability, and strict adherence to international standards like Good Manufacturing Practice.
Ultimately, the legislation is designed to enhance NAFDAC’s enforcement capabilities while supporting local manufacturers in accessing international markets. Supporters believe this shift will streamline operations and align Nigeria with global public health standards.
