WHO grants pre-qualification status to NAFDAC lab in Lagos

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) says the World Health Organisation (WHO) has granted pre-qualification status to the Central Drug Control Laboratory (CDCL) in Yaba, Lagos.

Announcing the development in a statement on Thursday, Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC director-general, said the move signifies a milestone in its dedication to ensuring the safety and quality of pharmaceutical products.

She said the WHO pre-qualification of the CDCL is a testament to the unwavering commitment of NAFDAC to meeting international standards of excellence in drug quality control and regulation.

“This is a huge landmark achievement for the Agency and Nigeria. Very few laboratories in the world have the apex status of WHO Prequalification,” the statement reads.

“Our journey towards this milestone actually started since year 2010, but with renewed efforts and more commitment to attempts by our management and Federal Government in the last four years, we have finally achieved this goal.

“This prestigious recognition brings numerous benefits to CDCL, NAFDAC, and, most importantly, to the Nigerian people.

“WHO Prequalification Status is a globally recognized badge of honor that attests to the CDCL’s competence in assuring the quality of pharmaceutical products.

“It places CDCL among an elite group of laboratories worldwide known for their excellence in drug analysis.

“The prequalification of CDCL ensures that the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines tested and certified by the laboratory meet the highest international standards.

“This directly translates to improved access to safe and effective medicines for the Nigerian populace.”

NAFDAC also said the pre-qualification status will open doors to international collaborations for the agency.

“CDCL’s new status opens doors to international collaboration with regulatory bodies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and global health organizations,” the statement added.

“This collaboration will strengthen Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector and contribute to advancing healthcare access in the region.

“The CDCL plays a pivotal role in safeguarding public health by ensuring that substandard and counterfeit medicines do not reach the market.

“With WHO Prequalification, its impact in this regard will be even more profound, protecting Nigerian patients from potentially harmful products.

“This prestigious status enhances NAFDAC’s credibility on the global stage and reinforces the trust of stakeholders, including pharmaceutical manufacturers, healthcare providers, and patients.”