The Ministries of Industry, Trade and Investment, and Health and Social Welfare have partnered to tackle irregularities in Nigeria’s food export system and advance the healthcare value chain.

Announcing the collaboration in Abuja, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, highlighted its importance during a courtesy visit by Health Minister, Dr. Muhammad Pate. The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, was also present.

Dr. Pate emphasized the need to resolve long-standing regulatory issues, particularly in food exportation, cross-border trade, and healthcare transformation, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s national development agenda.

The ministers pledged to address challenges, including denominating permit fees in Naira, expediting certification processes, and improving export standards to prevent goods rejection abroad. Discussions also covered local manufacturing policies for medical devices like syringes and needles.

Following deliberations, both ministries agreed to form a task force to revisit these issues and develop actionable solutions. Further meetings are scheduled to finalize resolutions.