Traditional Medicinal: UN Agency To Collaborate With  NAFDAC In  Strengthening Regulatory Framework 

The National Agency For Foods Drugs Administration and  Control (NAFDAC)  and United Nations Federation of International Alternative, Scientific Tradomedicinal and Research Organization (UNFIA)  have agreed in principle to strengthen regulatory framework of the traditional medicine products.

UNFIA Africa Regional Coordinator, Professor Olumuyiwa Babalola who hinted this said this  it was the  outcome of a bilateral  meeting of the global organisation  with NAFDAC.

Babalola  underscored that such collaboration would help bridge the gap between traditional medicine practices and regulatory oversight, ultimately promoting public health.

Mr. Festus, representing the NAFDAC’s  Director of Registration and Regulatory Affairs (R&R), clarified that the registration and approval of herbal products fall under NAFDAC’s jurisdiction, while the Federal Ministry of Health oversees the regulation of traditional medicine practice.

The meeting explored the  potential collaboration between UNFIA and NAFDAC, with a shared vision of strengthening the regulatory landscape for traditional medicine and improving public health outcomes. 

NAFDAC’s team requested that Prof. Babalola to submit letter for future engagements 

Earlier, Professor Muyiwa  emphasized that the organization’s primary objective is to integrate traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare, recognizing the value of indigenous healing practices in complementing modern medical approaches. A key focus is to enhance the knowledge and capacity of traditional medicine practitioners through collaborative research, ensuring that their expertise is aligned with contemporary medical and scientific advancements.

He highlighted the importance of integrating traditional healers within primary healthcare systems, acknowledging their role in community health and disease management. Additionally, Prof. Babalola spoke on the need to develop strategic projects to raise public awareness and build trust in traditional medicine, leveraging UNFIA as a platform for outreach and education.

“To further support the advancement of herbal medicine, he informed the meeting about the availability of research grants aimed at strengthening scientific studies on herbal medicines, fostering innovation, and improving the regulatory framework for traditional medicinal products”.

Prof. Babalola expressed his commitment to establishing a strong partnership with NAFDAC, emphasizing the need for clear regulatory guidance for organization members to ensure compliance with NAFDAC’s standards and safety guidelines.