NAFDAC requests greater funding for development of herbal medicines

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has requested increased assistance and money for herbal medicine. 

The request was made in a statement signed by the agency’s Director-General (DG), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, and acquired by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja. 

According to the release, the DG made the appeal at the University of Lagos’ inaugural symposium and opening of the Africa Centre of Excellence for Drug Research, Herbal Medicine Development, and Regulatory Science (ACEDHARS).  

The focus of the conference was “Drug Development from African Medicinal Plants: Opportunities, Challenges, and Regulatory Approach.” 

Adeyeye stated that financing for research and development of herbal medicine will contribute in meeting the objective for universal health care for everybody. 

Adeyeye stated that investment in herbal medicine research and development would benefit the pharmaceutical and traditional medicine industries’ economies. 

Herbal medicines, she believes, are critical to healthcare delivery and can make a significant contribution to the country’s universal health coverage. 

“Despite their widespread usage, many developing nations, like Nigeria, have struggled to integrate traditional medicines into their national healthcare systems.”  

“The growing popularity of herbal medicine, despite a general lack of study on some of these items, is cause for worry.” 

“Investment in herbal medicine research and development is required from all stakeholders, including the government, so that we can benefit from whatever God has freely given to us.” She said. 

Adeyeye stated that ACEDHARS is critical to Nigeria because of the emphasis on the development of herbal medicine for public usage. 

The DG stated that the center will work to guarantee that proper research and clinical studies on herbal products were completed prior to their use.  

Some herbal medications, she claims, are released onto the market without proper research and clinical trials to ensure their safety and efficacy.  

Adeyeye encouraged herbal medicine practitioners to use the center to expand their understanding of the field, stating that herbal practitioners must continue their education even if they already have it. 

She stated that the center would be extremely beneficial to individuals who lack understanding in the field, as well as broaden their horizons. 

She also encouraged people who lack expertise to participate in the program in order to obtain the fundamental education necessary for practice.