The Nigerian Ministries of Industry, Trade and Investment (MITI) and Health and Social Welfare (MHSW) have initiated a collaborative effort to rectify irregularities plaguing the nation’s food export system and unlock potential within the healthcare value chain. This partnership was formalized during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Muhammad Pate, and the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, to the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole. The meeting aimed to address longstanding issues impacting both sectors, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s transformative agenda for the country.
The meeting highlighted three key areas of concern. Firstly, the regulation of food exports, a critical aspect of international trade, was identified as needing immediate attention. Secondly, the role of NAFDAC in facilitating or hindering cross-border trade requires careful evaluation to ensure smooth and compliant trade practices. Finally, the regulatory framework’s influence on unlocking the potential of the healthcare value chain was recognized as a vital component of national development. These interconnected issues necessitated a combined effort between the two ministries to formulate effective solutions.
Dr. Pate emphasized the significance of the collaboration, highlighting the interconnectedness of the two ministries, despite their seemingly disparate functions. The joint effort aimed to address lingering challenges related to food export regulations, NAFDAC’s role in trade facilitation, and ultimately, the contribution of these factors to the growth of the healthcare sector. These issues, he stressed, have significant implications for Nigeria’s economic and social development, and addressing them effectively is vital for realizing President Tinubu’s vision for national transformation.
Dr. Oduwole welcomed the collaboration, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the identified challenges. She acknowledged the need for a thorough review of a draft policy on medical device manufacturing, specifically syringes and needles, highlighting the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration to refine and implement effective policies. She underscored that this initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s eight-point agenda, emphasizing the strategic importance of local manufacturing within the broader national development strategy.
A key point raised by the NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Adeyeye, focused on the need for a shift in mindset regarding the export of goods. She stressed the critical role of effective regulation by agencies like NAFDAC in preventing the rejection of Nigerian goods in international markets. This, she argued, is crucial for enhancing Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable exporter and boosting its international trade competitiveness. Furthermore, Mr. Temiloluwa Oluokun, Technical Aide to the MITI, raised concerns about the denomination of permit fees in foreign currencies, advocating for a transition to local currency to protect exporters from exchange rate fluctuations.
Discussions also revolved around streamlining the timelines for processing certificates and enhancing private sector participation in the export process. A recommendation was put forward to revise the 2024 export regulations through extensive industry consultation to achieve a balance between regulatory oversight and operational efficiency. Additionally, the Director of the Federal Produce Inspectorate Service, Mr. Dafang Sule, requested support from the MHSW in training officers on equipment usage to address the persistent issue of pesticide residues in sesame seed exports. This technical training is crucial to ensuring that Nigerian agricultural products meet international standards and avoid trade disruptions. Following extensive deliberations, the ministries agreed to establish a joint team tasked with developing a concrete action plan to address the issues raised, scheduling a follow-up meeting to finalize the resolutions and chart a clear path forward. This collaborative approach underscores the commitment of both ministries to working together to streamline processes, enhance regulatory efficacy, and ultimately boost Nigeria’s economic prospects through improved trade and a strengthened healthcare sector.
