NAFDAC ‘processing’ tax relief for local pharmaceutical companies

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) says it is working with the ministry of trade and industry on the issue of tax relief for local pharmaceutical companies.

In an interview with NAN on Monday, Moji Adeyeye, the director general of NAFDAC, said it would guarantee quality and affordable drugs for Nigerians.

“NAFDAC is currently working with the ministry of trade and industry on the issue of tax relief for locally manufacturing pharmaceutical companies, and we are optimistic that they will oblige,” she said.

“About 80% of materials currently used in the production of drugs are imported while only 20% is sourced locally.”

The director general said that the development was unacceptable and her agency would do everything possible to change the trend.

“In doing this, it will also help us in achieving ease of doing business, one of the policies of the present administration to boost investment.”

Adeyeye said there are plans to get enhanced salary structure for the staff of the agency to motivate them and boost the fight against illicit drugs.

She said NAFDAC members of staff are working hard to save the lives of Nigerians, but they are not well paid.

The NAFDAC boss said a situation where the staff cannot afford house rent in Abuja and Lagos is unacceptable..

“Though the last strike by members of the agency was in solidarity with JOHESU and we use the opportunity to meet with the union to address the issues on welfare.

“And a lot has been achieved with the union, we have our plans, very soon we will get a new staff good salary structure.”