News
NAFDAC’s Renewed Commitment to Combat Substandard Products in Nigeria.
In a resolute stance against the increasing menace of counterfeit and unwholesome food and drug products, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has unequivocally declared that Nigeria is not a dumping ground for substandard products. This assertion was made during the 8th Annual Conference of the Association of Nigerian Health Journalists (ANHEJ) held in Abuja.
In his address, the Director of Marketing Surveillance of NAFDAC, representing the Director General, highlighted the agency’s intensified partnerships with countries such as China and India. These collaborations aim to ensure that all products destined for the Nigerian market undergo stringent testing prior to shipment. NAFDAC’s proactive measures reflect a commitment to safeguarding consumer health and protecting legitimate businesses from the detrimental effects of counterfeit goods.
The agency’s approach includes the appointment of independent analysts in manufacturing countries to assess product safety rigorously. This initiative significantly minimizes the risk of inferior products infiltrating Nigerian markets. “Pre-shipment testing ensures that only quality products are sent to Nigeria,” the representative stated, emphasizing the critical nature of these preventive steps.
Furthermore, NAFDAC underlined the importance of post-marketing inspections. These inspections are vital, as counterfeiters often evade regulatory oversight. The agency reported successfully intercepting 144 batches of substandard pharmaceutical products recently, showcasing its effectiveness in curtailing the influx of harmful items.
In addition to these measures, NAFDAC urged the Nigerian populace to remain vigilant and report any suspected counterfeit items, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in this battle. The agency also advocated for bolstering local pharmaceutical manufacturing to diminish reliance on imported goods.
Through these efforts, NAFDAC demonstrates its unwavering dedication to ensuring that Nigerian consumers are protected from the threats posed by substandard products, thereby fostering a healthier and more secure environment for all.
The Federal Government has declared a state of emergency on the construction of the Suleja-Minna road. Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the declaration on Saturday following an inspection of the road. He stated that the project, initially awarded to Salini Nigeria Limited, had been poorly executed or abandoned.
Umahi explained that despite repeated attempts to have Salini repair the road over the past year and a half, progress had been unsatisfactory. Niger Governor Mohammed Bago raised concerns with President Bola Tinubu, prompting the Ministry of Works to intervene. The road, described as being “in a very terrible situation delaying travel time by seven hours instead of an hour and half hours and vehicles are falling and killing people,” has been designated an emergency project.
The contract with Salini has been irrevocably terminated due to substandard work. Umahi has directed his ministry to recover funds owed by Salini, potentially involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Two contractors are now engaged in the project. CCCC International Engineering Nigeria Ltd. has been contracted to handle part of the road, with 60km already completed under the Governor’s urban renewal agenda. CCCC has been given 10 days to mobilize and commence work on a critical 7km stretch. Umahi emphasized that work will begin immediately under emergency procurement guidelines, with pricing to be verified subsequently.
The Nigerian film industry is in mourning following the death of Kayode Peters, a renowned filmmaker and producer. The news was announced by his family on his official Instagram page, stating that he passed away peacefully on the morning of Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, after a long illness.
Peters, fondly known as KP, was celebrated for his contributions as a filmmaker, actor, and producer. He was known for his role as Koko in the popular sitcoms “Twilight Zone” and “Flatmates” in the early 2000s. His work also extended to stage plays and sitcoms like “Extended Family” and “Being Farouk,” significantly impacting Nigeria’s contemporary theatre and television landscape.
He is survived by his wife, Alexander, and their children. Funeral arrangements are underway, and further details will be shared by the family in due course. The industry and fans alike will deeply miss his warmth, generosity, and contributions to Nollywood.
President Bola Tinubu arrived in Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia, on Saturday, marking the commencement of a two-nation tour encompassing the Caribbean and South America. Upon arrival at Hewanorra International Airport, he was received with full military honors by Governor-General Errol Melchiades Charles and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre.
The President’s itinerary includes courtesy visits to the Governor-General and Prime Minister, followed by an address to a joint session of the Senate and the House of Assembly of Saint Lucia. Discussions will focus on deepening cooperation between Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), with emphasis on economic partnerships and cultural solidarity. A visit to the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College is also planned to strengthen educational ties.
Following his engagements in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu will proceed to Brazil to participate in the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, attending at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil. Nigeria’s participation as a ‘partner country’ underscores its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations on a global scale.
Federal Government Declares State of Emergency on Suleja-Minna Road.
Nollywood Mourns the Loss of Kayode Peters.
