… Call for collaboration with NAFDAC, regulator agencies.
By Divine Sam
The two-day workshop organized by the National Association of Nigerian Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP) in collaboration with the United Nations Federation of International ASTRO (UNFIA) concluded with key discussions and calls for action in the field of traditional medicine. Held at the House of Chieftaincy Secretariat in Ibadan, Oyo State, the workshop focused on the theme, “The Impact of DAFDAC in Preparation and Selling of Herbal Medicine.”
Chief Dr. Iyiola Omotosho, the chairman of NANTMP Oyo State, urged Governor Seyi Makinde to prioritize the completion of the state’s incubation center for traditional medicine, emphasizing its potential to boost job creation, economic growth, and healthcare delivery in the state. Dr. Omotosho also called on traditional medicine practitioners to register their businesses with regulatory bodies to avoid conflicts with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
He highlighted the need for the standardization of natural medicine and for NAFDAC to work more closely with NANTMP to enhance the practice and regulation of herbal medicine in Nigeria. He also stressed the importance of research, science, and technology to advance traditional medicine and reduce reliance on imported products that undermine Nigeria’s economy.
Dr. Temitayo, CEO of Idera Tradomedical and Spiritual Center, discussed efforts to regulate herbal practices, eliminate fake products, and align traditional medicine with international standards, particularly those set by the World Health Organization (WHO). He emphasized that traditional medicine practitioners in Oyo State have made significant grassroots contributions to healthcare, offering affordable healthcare solutions.
Pharm Adeyemi Samuel, a representative from NAFDAC, spoke on the critical role of registration and regulation for herbal products, mentioning that nanotechnology is being applied to traditional medicine to improve its effectiveness. He emphasized the importance of proper inspection and safety protocols for herbal products.
Mrs. Fredrick Vivian, a representative of UNFIA, highlighted the organization’s influence on African traditional medicine, focusing on the exchange of Ayurvedic knowledge, plant cultivation, education, and collaborative research efforts between India and Africa. She also discussed the potential benefits of integrating Ayurvedic practices with African traditional medicine, such as increased accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and holistic healthcare.
The workshop also addressed issues of insecurity and criminal activities, with a talk by the Commissioner of Police on the challenges posed by rituals, killings, and kidnappings. Participants from various local government areas in Oyo State were awarded certificates of participation at the conclusion of the event.
Performance by the Seamans cultural troop.
Leave a Reply