By Benson Daniel
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has blacklisted Onifam Laboratories over alleged violations of regulatory standards, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring compliance within Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector.
The agency said the action followed findings that the company failed to comply with key regulatory requirements governing the production and distribution of pharmaceutical products. NAFDAC noted that the decision forms part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight of the country’s healthcare industry and eliminate practices that could endanger consumers.
According to the agency, companies operating in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors are expected to adhere strictly to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), product registration guidelines and other quality assurance measures designed to guarantee the safety, efficacy and quality of medicines available to the public.
NAFDAC stated that blacklisting firms found to have breached regulatory provisions serves as a deterrent to other manufacturers while reinforcing the agency’s zero tolerance for activities capable of compromising public health. It stressed that enforcement actions would continue against organisations that fail to meet established standards.
Industry experts described the development as a reminder of the importance of regulatory compliance in maintaining confidence in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry. They noted that strict enforcement helps protect consumers from substandard and falsified medicines while promoting ethical business practices among manufacturers.
The agency also encouraged healthcare providers, distributors and members of the public to remain vigilant by purchasing medicines only from licensed outlets and reporting suspected cases of counterfeit or substandard products to the appropriate authorities.
Stakeholders believe continued collaboration between regulators, manufacturers and healthcare professionals will strengthen quality assurance across the pharmaceutical value chain and improve access to safe and effective medicines nationwide.
NAFDAC reiterated that it remains committed to protecting the health of Nigerians through rigorous inspections, continuous monitoring and enforcement of existing regulations, adding that compliance with industry standards remains the responsibility of every operator within the pharmaceutical sector.
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