By Milcah Tanimu

The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to traditional medical practitioners in the state, stating that they will face sanctions if they do not register their premises with the Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board (LSTMB).

Babatunde Adele, the Registrar of LSTMB, released a statement on Sunday emphasizing that all traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine practitioners must formalize their practices and complete registration with the Board by the end of September 2023.

This mandate extends to manufacturers, importers, wholesalers, and retailers involved in traditional health products as well.

Adele expressed concern about the increasing disregard for the existing laws governing traditional medicine practice in the state, particularly among illegal operators who are tarnishing the reputation of the traditional medicine field.

He announced that the agency is prepared to activate its Inspectorate Unit in accordance with Part Nine of the Health Sector Reform Law 2006 to rein in any misconduct among practitioners.

Adele highlighted that the National Council on Health reached a resolution during its 62nd meeting in 2019, urging all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory to establish Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicine Departments/Boards within their respective jurisdictions. This step is intended to enhance the coordination, regulation, and oversight of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine practices and products across Nigeria.

The registrar advised traditional medicine practitioners to visit the head office of the Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board to formalize their establishments and inform the state government about their operations.

He warned that failing to comply with this directive could result in appropriate penalties, including the sealing of premises found to be in violation of the regulations.