The Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN) has called for stronger collaboration among regulatory bodies in the health, industrial and environmental sectors to strengthen Nigeria's laboratory ecosystem.
Speaking at the 32nd Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) workshop in Lagos, the Registrar/CEO of IPAN, Aliyu Angara, urged relevant agencies to shun inter-agency rivalry and embrace synergy.
"While agencies may seek to expand their mandates, such expansion must be guided by professional ethics, mutual respect and national interest," Angara said.
He noted that IPAN remains the only legally recognised body authorised to register analytical laboratories and train professionals qualified to issue Certificates of Analysis valid in law.
According to him, IPAN has consistently respected the mandates of sister agencies including NAFDAC, SON, NESREA and FCCPC, and expects the same courtesy in return.
The two-day workshop, themed, 'Testing for Cosmetic Safety and Efficacy: Balancing Consumer Demands, Public Health, and Regulatory Standards,' drew participants from regulatory agencies, academia, industry and policy circles.
Delivering the keynote address, the Dean, Faculty of Physical and Earth Sciences, University of Lagos, Prof. Olayinka Asekun, highlighted the rising demand for locally made cosmetic products and emphasised the need for robust safety assessments before market entry.
"There is a gradual shift in demand for African products made in Africa for African skin. This transformation is sparking a new age of local innovation, encouraging both local start-ups and foreign investments," she said.
Asekun, however, expressed concern about the proliferation of adulterated and fake cosmetic products, warning that many unapproved products are being pushed into the market, increasing risks to consumers.
Declaring the workshop open, the chairman of the occasion, Prof. Olugbenga Ogunmoyela, urged analysts to rely on evidence-based practices rather than sentiment to ensure cosmetic products in Nigeria meet global safety standards.
"This year's MCPD workshop has been convened to strengthen the analytical and regulatory capacity of public analysts, ensuring that cosmetic products in Nigeria meet globally accepted safety and efficacy standards," he said.