NAFDAC Warns Manufacturers Against Products That Could Harm Nigeria’s Global Standing

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned operators and manufacturers in the Kano Free Trade Zone against producing substandard products or engaging in practices that could undermine Nigeria’s international standing.

The agency’s Kano Coordinator, Kassim Ibrahim, made the remarks during a two-day investors and stakeholders meeting organized by the Kano Free Trade Zone, themed: “Strengthening Partnership for Efficient Service Delivery in the Free Trade Zone.”

Ibrahim noted that NAFDAC is currently rated Maturity Level 3 (ML3) by the World Health Organization and stressed that the agency’s hard-earned reputation cannot withstand practices that compromise product quality.

He explained that substandard products manufactured for domestic use or export do not only affect individual companies but also damage NAFDAC’s credibility and Nigeria’s reputation in global markets.

“NAFDAC is now rated Maturity Level 3 by the WHO Global Benchmarking Tool, a status achieved through rigorous processes,” Ibrahim said. “Producing substandard products, even for export, directly impacts our rating because NAFDAC registration numbers appear on exported goods. Any deficiencies found abroad reflect on us and could undermine Nigeria’s standing.”

He urged operators to ensure that all products—whether for local consumption or export—comply strictly with NAFDAC’s safety, quality, and efficacy standards. “Our call to manufacturers and investors in the Free Trade Zone is to adhere to rules and maintain standards to strengthen NAFDAC’s rating and, by extension, Nigeria’s global image,” he added.

Ibrahim also revealed plans for unannounced inspections within the zone to enhance surveillance and curb malpractice.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, said the Kano Free Trade Zone generated N18.8 billion in revenue over 10 months. He noted that the zone itself contributed N1.8 billion, while Customs within the zone generated N17 billion, marking significant growth compared with the previous year.

Represented by the Head of the Kano Free Trade Zone, Richard Bassey, Ogunyemi described the forum’s theme as timely, emphasizing its focus on removing operational and administrative barriers to ensure smooth and efficient zone operations.