NAFDAC WARNS BAYELSA TRADERS AGAINST BREAKING SAFETY RULES

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has warned manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and producers of consumable and cosmetic products in Bayelsa State that it will no longer be business as usual, as the agency intensifies enforcement of regulations to ensure public safety.

Mr. Ihekire Venatius, the State Coordinator of NAFDAC in Bayelsa State gave the warning during a stakeholders’ meeting held with leaders and members of supermarket operators, pharmacies, cosmetics dealers, packaged water producers and other business owners at the Federal Secretariat in Yenagoa on Thursday.

Mr. Venatius said Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the agency’s Director-General has directed that all operations must strictly comply with laid-down guidelines and regulatory standards. He explained that the meeting was convened to properly inform stakeholders, stressing that ignorance of the law would no longer be accepted as an excuse.

He also urged residents of Bayelsa State to provide credible information that would assist the agency in tracking illegal activities, adding that public cooperation is vital to protecting lives and strengthening national development.

On his remarks, Professor Peter Owonaro, Chairman, Bayelsa Drug Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee, commended Mr. Venatius and the agency’s staff in the state for prioritising public health over personal gains.

On her part, Mrs. Deseyi Dickson, the Chairperson of the Association of Master Bakers and Caterers in the state, said the engagement would help members adhere strictly to best practices and avoid running afoul of the law. She and leaders of other associations also appreciated NAFDAC for organising the sensitisation programme.

NAFDAC officials also delivered lectures to participants on product safety standards, registration procedures, regulatory requirements, applicable fines for various offences, payment processes, and consumer complaint mechanisms to ensure strict compliance among operators.

By Bright Okpo