President Tinubu Reappoints NAFDAC DG Amid Controversy Over Alcohol Ban

By: Emmanuel Ibitoye

In a move that has sparked controversy, President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Prof. Moji Adeyeye as the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC). This decision comes in the midst of protests against the ban on manufacturing and distributing alcoholic beverages in sachets.

Adeyeye has held the position of NAFDAC DG since November 2017. Her reappointment faced opposition from labor unions and distillers who demanded her suspension due to the contentious alcohol ban. Despite these calls, Tinubu chose to stand by Adeyeye, demonstrating his confidence in her leadership.

The President also announced other key appointments in the health and social welfare sector. Dr. Mansur Kabir has been named the new Chairman of NAFDAC’s board, while Dr. Olajide Idris will take over as the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, succeeding Prof. Ifedayo Adetifa.

In addition to these appointments, Prof. Abba Zubairu and Dr. Saleh Yuguda will serve as Board Chairperson and CEO, respectively, of the National Blood Service Commission. Prof. Afolabi Lesi and Dr. Fatima Kyari will take on the roles of Board Chairperson and CEO, respectively, of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria. Other appointments include Wasilat Giwa and Ibrahim Ahmed for the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, and Dr. Babajide Salako and Dr. Tosan Erhabor for the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria.

The President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, highlighted that these appointments reflect Tinubu’s commitment to raising the standards of healthcare service delivery in Nigeria. The President expects the new leadership to implement effective policy frameworks, aligning the health sector with international best practices.

This decision to retain Adeyeye and make strategic appointments underscores Tinubu’s dedication to addressing challenges in the health sector and providing affordable, quality healthcare for all Nigerians. The President anticipates that these changes will significantly improve public health administration in the country.