The Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, has come under public criticism after appearing to laugh when asked about calls for her resignation over the circulation of fake and substandard products in Nigeria.
The reaction followed a recent interaction with journalists in Lagos, where Adeyeye was questioned about demands from some Nigerians for her to step down amid concerns over counterfeit products. Social media reactions to the incident have focused largely on her laughter and perceived response to the question.
Adeyeye, however, defended her record at the agency and rejected suggestions that she should resign. She said she returned to Nigeria after spending 34 years in the United States because she wanted to contribute to the country.
“I came here for service. I retired happily. I was ashamed of my country! I came to remove some of the shame. And the world is seeing it,” she said.
The NAFDAC chief also highlighted what she described as institutional improvements under her leadership. According to her, the agency inherited about N3.2 billion in liabilities and significant operational challenges when she assumed office in 2017. She said NAFDAC subsequently improved its regulatory maturity and strengthened its international standing.
The controversy is important because counterfeit medicines, food, beverages and cosmetics can pose serious public-health risks. NAFDAC has faced continued pressure to strengthen enforcement and prevent unsafe products from reaching consumers.
Adeyeye said the agency had destroyed counterfeit products worth more than N1.5 trillion over the past three years, while maintaining that its enforcement efforts have intensified.
Adeyeye has led NAFDAC for about nine years. The latest controversy highlights the difficult balance between defending the agency’s record and addressing public concerns over counterfeit products and regulatory effectiveness.
