NAFDAC signs MoU with National Counter Terrorism Centre
By Matthew Denis
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Counter Terrorism Centre in the Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-NSA) as part of the national action plan to ensure the prevention of counterfeit medicines, use of medicines for terrorism, banditry, violent extremism and to help curtail the illegal drug trade in the country.
The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye stated this during the signing of a MoU at the National Counter Terrorism Centre in the Office of the National Security Adviser.
She said the MoU signed between the two Agencies is significance to the country in terms of death reduction and obliteration of future plans of young minds that drugs captured. “Drug abuse or substance abuse alter minds” she said.
The MoU stated that the cooperation is to ensure that potential hazardous chemical threats that could pose adverse effect with attendant consequences to lives and properties of the citizens are adequately managed. The MoU will also ensure that the use of hazardous chemicals for malicious intent by non-state actors for development of Weapon of Mass Destruction is prevented.
On his part, the National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre, Major-General Adamu Garba Laka said the MoU represents a commitment to shared goals, mutual support and effective cooperation. It signifies our dedication to leveraging our respective expertise, resources and capabilities to strengthen our respond to terrorism, prevent radicalization of and protect our society from the devastating impact of violent extremism.
Major General Lake added that the partnership with NAFDAC enhance information sharing, intelligent cooperation, capacity building and joint operations. In his word “by combining our efforts and forging a united front against terrorism, we are better equip to confront this multifaceted challenge and uphold the safety and security of our country”.
Prof. Adeyeye appreciated the Office of the National Security Adviser for always identifying with NAFDAC and assures the National Counter Terrorism Centre of a more strengthened partnership.
