The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has inaugurated 600 pharmacists as part of its Pharmacists Reserve Volunteer Programme (PRVP) aimed at countering the prevalence of substandard and counterfeit medicines in Nigeria.
During the ceremony, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, emphasized the importance of integrity and commitment among the volunteers. She cautioned against succumbing to corruption, stating that any compromised regulator diminishes public safety.
The pharmacists, selected from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, were chosen through a transparent process that prioritized merit and geographical balance. Adeyeye described the PRVP not as an internship, but as a strategic investment in the pharmacists and the future of Nigeria’s drug regulation.
These volunteers will gain training in vital areas such as compliance monitoring, pharmacovigilance, and public awareness about drug abuse. Adeyeye envisions building a national reserve of pharmacists equipped to respond swiftly to public health challenges, such as product recalls or emergencies in remote areas.
She noted that the initiative aims to extend NAFDAC’s regulatory influence beyond its traditional boundaries to encompass markets, community pharmacies, and primary healthcare centers throughout the country.
Moreover, Adeyeye outlined expectations for the volunteers, including strict adherence to confidentiality and prompt responsiveness to assignments. She underscored the necessity of treating all gathered information as belonging to both NAFDAC and the public.
Through this program, volunteers will not only acquire hands-on experience but will also receive mentorship and certification, enhancing their professional growth within the pharmaceutical and regulatory sectors.
In conclusion, Adeyeye called upon NAFDAC coordinators to actively engage with the volunteers, ensuring they contribute effectively to the agency’s regulatory endeavors at the state level.
