By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, and the National Counterterrorism Centre has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU to curtail terrorism in the country.
Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye during the signing of the MoU in the Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-NSA), said that it is part of the strategic national action plan to ensure the prevention of counterfeit medicines, use of medicines for terrorism, banditry, violent extremism and to help curtail the illegal drug trade in the country.
Adeyeye stated that the counter terrorism MoU is significant to the country in terms of deaths reduction and discourage young minds from further use of drugs.
“Drug abuse or substance abuse alters minds” she said.
The MoU is centered on cooperation between the two agencies to ensure that potential hazardous chemical threats that could pose adverse effects with attendant consequences for lives and properties of the citizens are adequately managed.
To ensure that the use of hazardous chemicals for malicious intent by non-state actors for development of Weapon of Mass Destruction is prevented.
The National Coordinator, National Counterterrorism Centre, Major-General Adamu Garba Laka said that the new partnership represents a commitment to shared goals, mutual support and effective cooperation.
“It signifies our dedication to leveraging our respective expertise, resources, and capabilities to strengthen our response to terrorism, prevent radicalization of and protect our society from the devastating impact of violent extremism.”
Major General Laka added that the partnership with NAFDAC will enhance information sharing, intelligent cooperation, capacity building and joint operations.
“By combining our efforts and forging a united front against terrorism, we are better equipped to confront this multifaceted challenge and uphold the safety and security of our country, Laka stated.
