National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has set its sights on achieving WHO Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT) Level 4, following its historic distinction as the first African regulatory authority to be re-benchmarked.
In a media parley on Wednesday, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, Director-General of NAFDAC, outlined the agency’s modernization journey since 2018, emphasizing its transformation into a globally recognized, transparent, and efficient regulatory body.
Prof. Adeyeye highlighted key achievements, including the adoption of ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems, institutionalization of Good Regulatory Practices, and the implementation of risk-based and reliance regulatory approaches.
She also noted the agency’s focus on local manufacturing, with over 70% of selected essential medicines now produced domestically under initiatives like the 5+5 directive and Ceiling List policy.
Digitalization has played a central role in NAFDAC’s evolution, with platforms such as IRIMS, NAPAMS, NTIS, and LIMS improving efficiency, traceability, and post-market surveillance.
The agency has also strengthened enforcement, removing over ₦1 trillion worth of substandard and falsified medicines from circulation.
Prof. Adeyeye stated that achieving Level 4 status, advancing regulatory reliance, and integrating AI in regulatory processes are top priorities, consolidating Nigeria’s position as a continental and global leader in public health regulation.
