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NAFDAC DG Hails Tinubu, Pate, Alausa Over Tax Waiver On Drugs

Published

6 months ago

Jul 3, 2024.

The Director-General of the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, has expressed her appreciation for the recent waiver on drug imports granted by President Tinubu’s administration.

Eko Hot Blog reports that Adeyeye added that in her six years as NAFDAC DG, she has never felt as relieved as she does now under Tinubu’s leadership.

She highlighted that the high cost of drugs has been a significant concern due to the expensive raw materials caused by import duties. This issue, she said, has been a persistent challenge during her tenure.

File Image of NAFDAC DG Prof Adeyeye

Her comments came in response to an Executive Order signed by President Tinubu on June 28, which was announced by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate.

The order removes import duty fees on raw materials needed for drug production.

“The importation costs of all materials needed for manufacturing, except water, have been a major hurdle for local manufacturers,” Adeyeye stated.

“As NAFDAC DG, I have always pushed for zero tariffs to help our local manufacturers thrive. Now, thanks to the efforts of President Tinubu and his team, including the Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof Mohammed Ali Pate, and the Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof Mohammed Ali Pate, and the Coordinating Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, we see a positive change happening.”

Minister of Health Prof Ali Pate and Minister of State For health Dr Tunji Alausa

The NAFDAC DG explained that the removal of import duties would significantly reduce the high cost of drugs and other pharmaceutical products.

She emphasized that the new Executive Order would not only lower costs but also attract local and foreign investment in the pharmaceutical sector and create jobs.

Additionally, she mentioned that regulatory harmonization and market shaping addressed by the Order would drive innovation and quality improvements in the local health industry.“

“By lowering tariffs and providing special waivers, the EO aims to make healthcare more affordable for Nigerians,” she said. “It will encourage local manufacturing, create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and reduce our dependence on imports, ensuring a reliable supply of essential healthcare products.”

Adeyeye concluded by saying that the Executive Order would strengthen Nigeria’s health system, improve service delivery and health outcomes, and enhance resilience to future health crises.

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