NAFDAC’s Vigilance: Upholding Quality and Standards in Nigerian Exports

Introduction

The issue of Nigerian products being rejected abroad has long been a cause for concern, reflecting poorly on the nation’s export sector. In response to these challenges, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has taken a firm stance to address the underlying issues and uphold the standards of quality and safety in exported goods. This article delves into NAFDAC’s proactive measures and plans to combat export product rejections, emphasizing the significance of regulatory supervision and adherence to international quality standards.

NAFDAC’s Determination to Enhance Export Product Quality

NAFDAC’s Director General, Prof Christianah Adeyeye, has voiced the agency’s commitment to tackling the obstacles that have led to the rejection of Nigerian exports on the global stage. At a recent National Stakeholder workshop for Exporters of NAFDAC Regulated Products, Prof Adeyeye highlighted the critical factors contributing to product rejections, including the lack of regulatory oversight in food safety, failure to meet minimum quality requirements, and ignorance of importing countries’ regulations.

Embracing Global Best Practices for Export Trade Facilitation

One of NAFDAC’s key strategies to mitigate export product rejections is the integration of globally recognized best practices in export trade facilitation. By establishing internationally accredited laboratories across the nation, NAFDAC aims to ensure that Nigerian products adhere to stringent quality control measures before they are shipped overseas. Moreover, the agency is working closely with stakeholders such as the CBN Trade & Exchange Department, Nigeria Customs Service, and Federal Ministry of Trade & Investments to streamline the export licensing process through national single window automation.

Empowering Exporters for Sustainable Compliance

In her address, Prof Adeyeye emphasized the importance of collaboration between NAFDAC and exporters to achieve sustainable compliance with quality standards. By promoting Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Good Hygienic Practices (GHP), and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), NAFDAC seeks to instill a culture of quality assurance from the farm to the packaging stage. Furthermore, the agency is actively incorporating global Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures into product specifications to preemptively address quality concerns even before goods reach the ports for shipment.

Prof Christianah Adeyeye, NAFDAC DG

Towards Strengthening Regulatory Infrastructure

As part of its comprehensive approach to combat export product rejections, NAFDAC is in the process of finalizing its Statutory Export Regulation, which will be officially gazetted. This regulatory framework will bolster NAFDAC’s oversight of export products and reinforce compliance with quality and safety standards. By enhancing the in-country regulatory infrastructure and emphasizing transparency and accountability, NAFDAC aims to restore confidence in Nigerian exports and safeguard national interests from unscrupulous practices that compromise product integrity.

Conclusion

NAFDAC’s resolute efforts to address export product rejections signify a pivotal step towards enhancing the reputation and competitiveness of Nigerian goods in the global market. By prioritizing regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and stakeholder collaboration, NAFDAC is paving the way for a future where Nigerian exports are synonymous with excellence and reliability. Through sustained commitment and strategic partnerships, NAFDAC is poised to transform the export landscape, ensuring that only high-quality products bearing the NAFDAC seal of approval grace international markets.

Summary

NAFDAC is cracking down on export product rejections to protect the reputation of Nigerian products on the international stage