The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) have entered into a partnership aimed at putting an end to drug abuse and other crimes in the country, News About Nigeria reports.
The drug agency disclosed this in a statement on Monday, stating that both agencies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to this effect, adding that operations will commence immediately.
The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed this, noting that the MoU will prevent the use of counterfeit medicines, curb drug abuse, and fight terrorism.
According to her, the MoU is part of a national effort aimed at reducing illegal drug trade, preventing violent extremism, and managing hazardous chemicals that could be exploited by non-state actors.
She further noted that partnership is very important and necessary in the prevention of drug-related crimes and saving of lives, as no one or agency can do it alone, he added that it takes combined efforts to be successful.
Speaking also, the NCTC Coordinator, Major-General Adamu Garba Laka, emphasised the collaboration’s role in boosting information sharing, joint operations, and intelligence cooperation to combat terrorism effectively.
The Director General further maintained that the partnership is a testament to the commitment of both NAFDAC and NCTC to ensuring that the public health of Nigerians, among others, is safeguarded.
The statement reads in part, “This partnership underscores both agencies’ commitment to safeguarding public health, national security, and preventing the misuse of drugs and chemicals in Nigeria.”
