*Nigeria Customs Service and NAFDAC Strengthen Partnership*

 By Lod Onyeji

The Nigeria Customs Service and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have taken a significant step forward in their efforts to combat the influx of illicit pharmaceutical products and harmful substances into the country. The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, paid an official visit to the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, to formally inaugurate a joint Implementation Committee aimed at enforcing the terms of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two agencies in 2024.

*A Collaborative Approach*

The MoU, which was signed on November 14, 2024, aims to strengthen the partnership between the two agencies in the fight against illicit pharmaceutical products and harmful substances. The Implementation Committee, which draws membership from both agencies, will be responsible for developing a joint work plan, coordinating communication and training programs, harmonizing operational standards, monitoring and evaluation, and identifying challenges with actionable solutions.

*A Commitment to Action*

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, reaffirmed the Customs Service's unwavering commitment to the collaboration, noting that the constitution of the Implementation Committee represents the next critical step in realizing the spirit and letter of the agreement. The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Adeyeye, expressed satisfaction with the pace of progress, reaffirming the agency's commitment to the full implementation of the MoU.

*A Shared Vision*

The inauguration of the committee serves as a strong shift from dialogue to action that will strengthen national controls, improve operational synergy, and protect the health and safety of Nigerians. The committee is chaired by Olakunle Olaniran of NAFDAC and Smart Akande, the Director Legal Services/Legal Adviser to Nigeria Customs Service, as Deputy Chairman, amongst other representatives from the two agencies.

*A Step Forward*

The Nigeria Customs Service and NAFDAC's partnership is a significant step forward in the fight against illicit pharmaceutical products and harmful substances. With the Implementation Committee in place, the two agencies are poised to make measurable outcomes that benefit public health and national security. The agreement remains legally binding and governed by Nigerian law, and both agencies are committed to working together to protect the health and safety of Nigerians.