NAFDAC Destroys Counterfeit Drugs Worth ₦100 Billion in Ibadan
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed counterfeit drugs worth ₦100 billion at the Moniya dump site in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State. The seized drugs, confiscated from pharmaceutical marketers in Lagos’s Idumota market, included expired, fake, substandard, and falsified medications.
The destruction exercise, led by NAFDAC Director General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, underscores the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health by preventing the reintroduction of harmful drugs into circulation.
Details of the Operation
Prof. Adeyeye, represented by NAFDAC Director of Narcotics and Controlled Substances, Yedunni Adenuga, revealed that the counterfeit drugs were seized during recent enforcement activities at open drug markets in Idumota, Onitsha, Ariara, and Ezeuku. The operation uncovered unregistered products, banned substances such as Analgin, and controlled drugs like Tramadol 225mg, which pose significant risks to public health and security.
“The discoveries made of the presence of unregistered products, banned products such as Analgin, and controlled substances such as Tramadol 225mg are part of the things making our country unsafe in terms of security,” Adeyeye stated.
The operation, which lasted three weeks, involved over 1,000 security personnel from the military, police, and Department of State Services (DSS). Several suspects were apprehended, and further investigations are ongoing to ensure that those found culpable face appropriate sanctions.
Commitment to Public Health
Prof. Adeyeye emphasized NAFDAC’s role as the lead agency in ensuring the safety and quality of food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, and packaged water. She highlighted the agency’s stringent guidelines for licensing, sale, and distribution of drug products as part of its efforts to protect consumers.
“NAFDAC is firmly committed to ensuring that food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, packaged water, and drinks are safe, wholesome, and effective for human consumption,” she said.
The destruction of the counterfeit drugs is a significant step in NAFDAC’s ongoing campaign against the proliferation of harmful and substandard products. The agency also evacuated poorly stored vaccines and maternal and child care products during the operation, further demonstrating its commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations.
Call for Collaborative Efforts
Prof. Adeyeye appealed to the general public, community leaders, health practitioners, religious organizations, and the media to join NAFDAC in the fight against counterfeit and falsified medicines.
“The general public, community leaders, health practitioners, religious members, and the press, I want to appeal for your assistance in the fight against falsified drugs. NAFDAC cannot do it alone; it is a fight for all,” she said.
Broader Implications
The destruction of ₦100 billion worth of counterfeit drugs highlights the scale of the challenge posed by fake and substandard medications in Nigeria. These products not only endanger lives but also undermine public trust in the healthcare system.
The operation also underscores the importance of robust enforcement mechanisms and collaboration between regulatory agencies, security forces, and the public to combat the menace of counterfeit drugs.
Looking Ahead
As NAFDAC continues its enforcement activities, stakeholders are calling for increased awareness and education to help consumers identify and avoid counterfeit products. The agency’s efforts to strengthen regulations and improve oversight of drug distribution channels are critical to ensuring the safety and efficacy of medications in Nigeria.
For now, the destruction of the seized drugs sends a strong message to counterfeiters and illegal drug marketers that NAFDAC is committed to protecting public health and will not tolerate the circulation of harmful products.
