NAFDAC Refutes Claims of Approving Herbal Tea Promoting Smoking

Uzoma Mba 

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has categorically refuted a misleading video circulating on social media, which falsely alleges that the Agency approved a herbal product claiming that smoking is healthy when used with their product.

Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, Director-General of NAFDAC, dismissed the allegations as “false, baseless, and completely unfounded,” clarifying that the product—Lung Detox Tea or Lungitox (Smokers Pride)—is not registered by NAFDAC. 

She explained that in 2023, an individual submitted an application to register an “anti-smoke and lung detox tea” at NAFDAC’s Lagos State Office. 

“Upon review, the application was rejected due to the unsubstantiated and dangerous claim that smoking could be made ‘healthy’ through the product. The applicant was asked to provide scientific evidence to substantiate the claims but failed to do so,” Prof. Adeyeye stated.

NAFDAC emphasized that it does not, and will never, permit the approval, importation, exportation, manufacture, advertisement, distribution, or sale of any product that lacks a solid scientific basis or poses risks to public health. 

“As a science-driven and professional regulatory body, we adhere strictly to our mandate to protect public health. Products under our purview—food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, bottled water, and chemicals—are rigorously evaluated for safety, quality, and efficacy before approval,” the Director-General added.

Addressing the packaging concerns seen in the misleading product, NAFDAC reiterated its strict guidelines: “We do not allow the use of pictorials of organs on product packaging or artwork, as this is misleading and against regulatory policies.”

On the issue of unverified therapeutic claims, Prof. Adeyeye emphasized: “Clients applying for the registration of herbal or similar products are not permitted to make therapeutic claims unless such claims have been scientifically validated through proper clinical trials.”

Reacting to allegations of financial inducement mentioned in the viral video, NAFDAC confirmed that its Legal Services Directorate is reviewing the libellous statements with a view to seeking redress in court. 

“Ordinarily, such baseless claims would be ignored. However, this matter will not be taken lightly as it undermines the integrity of the Agency. Let this serve as a deterrent to those who attempt to malign or defame the Agency,” she warned.

The Agency urged the general public to disregard the misleading video and avoid patronizing unregistered or suspicious products. 

Citizens were encouraged to report such activities via the following NAFDAC channels: Hotline: 0800-162-3322; Email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng or reform@nafdac.gov.ng; and Website: www.nafdac.gov.ng. 

Prof. Adeyeye concluded: “NAFDAC remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that only safe, effective, and scientifically substantiated products are approved. Misleading claims and deceptive practices that endanger public health will not be tolerated. Together, we can protect the health and safety of all Nigerians.”