By Lanre Akinpelu
The United Nations Federation of International Astro (UNIFIA) Africa, in collaboration with the National Association of Nigeria Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP), organized a two-day workshop and seminar on February 19 and 20, 2025.
The event, held at the House of Chiefs in the Oyo State Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, focused on the theme: “The Impact of NAFDAC in the Preparation and Sale of Herbal Medicine.”
The seminar highlighted key issues surrounding African traditional medicine, including UNIFIA’s role in its practice and benefits, the regulatory impact of NAFDAC on herbal medicine, as well as concerns related to insecurity, ritual killings, and kidnapping. The event attracted a large audience, including renowned traditional medicine practitioners, government officials, and scholars.
Notable attendees included Mogaji Omotoso Aiyegbami Iyiola, Professor Ademola Rotimi, Dr. Olorungbebe, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, the NAFDAC Director, the Oyo State Commissioner for Health, and other distinguished herbal practitioners and researchers.
Dr. Olorungbebe, a guest lecturer, spoke extensively on the complexities of traditional medicine practice. He educated practitioners on how to navigate legal and developmental challenges while adhering to regulatory guidelines. He emphasized the importance of compliance with NANTMP’s regulations, which would enable practitioners to benefit from government-backed provisions and facilities, ensuring a thriving and legitimate practice.
Mogaji Omotoso Aiyegbami Iyiola, a key organizer and facilitator, underscored the importance of public awareness regarding the modernization of traditional herbal medicine. He stressed the need for people to embrace improved preventive healthcare through the application of locally sourced herbs.
He also outlined various modernization efforts, including dosage modifications, conservation and cultivation of medicinal plants, training of apprentices, and international collaborations—such as learning acupuncture techniques in China.
Additionally, he called on the government at all levels to provide financial support and grants to dedicated traditional medicine practitioners striving to enhance the field.
Professor Ademola Rotimi, a seasoned microbiologist and biochemist trained in China and the UK, and former Secretary-General of NANTMP in Oyo State, provided insights into the rationale behind the seminar.
He described it as a precursor to an annual February gathering aimed at updating members on the latest advancements and achievements in the field. He revealed that the association had submitted a bill to the Oyo State House of Assembly for review and ratification.
Expressing optimism, he stated that once the bill is passed, it would lead to significant improvements in traditional medicine practice within the state.
Professor Rotimi also recalled his interaction with Governor Seyi Makinde, commending the governor’s contributions to humanity.
However, he urged Governor Makinde to further support NANTMP by facilitating the bill’s approval, which is currently under review by the Oyo State Assembly.
He expressed hope that with the governor’s endorsement, the bill would be ratified, paving the way for further progress in the sector.
