Senate has begun deliberations on legislation that would significantly expand the powers of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control over product inspections, clinical trials and post-market surveillance.
Sponsored by Senator Suleiman Sadiq, the bill seeks to repeal outdated laws and introduce a comprehensive framework for regulating food, medical products and emerging technologies. Sadiq said existing legislation no longer reflects modern realities.
“The health of a nation is one of the greatest measures of its development,” he stated during debate.
The proposed law would broaden the definition of regulated products and institutionalise international standards including Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Clinical Practices. It also strengthens enforcement mechanisms while ensuring due process.
Lawmakers including Lola Ashiru, Diket Plang and Garba Maidoki supported the bill, with some calling for inclusion of traditional medicine regulation. Senate President Godswill Akpabio described it as vital for public health.
The bill has been referred to the Committee on Health for further work.
