The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) regulates the importation, manufacturing, and distribution, while the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) licenses premises and controls professional practice.

Registration of a pharmaceutical product takes approximately 120 working days from the acceptance of the application.

Foreign manufacturers must appoint a local representative (a registered Nigerian company) to submit documentation for registration and obtain a Certificate of Registration, which is valid for 5 years.

NAFDAC conducts inspections, sanitizes open drug markets, and uses post-marketing surveillance to seize counterfeit products.

The PCN ensures that registered pharmacies and distribution outlets comply with good distribution practices and that only licensed pharmacists handle pharmaceutical products.

Yes, to operate within the legal framework, requiring licensing from the PCN and adherence to NAFDAC guidelines.

Prescription medicine ads to the public are prohibited by the World Health Organization (WHO), and all marketing materials must be approved by NAFDAC.

The industry is shifting from manual processes toward digital, technology-driven, and traceable distribution networks to improve efficiency and reduce counterfeiting Business Cardinal.