In a bid to enhance public health and foster a safer pharmaceutical environment, the Akwa Ibom branch of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has successfully collected and forfeited expired drugs valued at over ₦460 million. The handover of these drugs to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for proper disposal marks a significant milestone in combating the issue of expired medications in the state.

A Commitment to Public Health

Speaking during the formal handover ceremony in Uyo, the ACPN Chairman, Pharm. Anderson Tony, highlighted the dire implications of expired medications, ranging from health risks to unethical practices such as rebranding drugs with counterfeit expiration dates.

“It is with immense gratitude and a sense of accomplishment that I stand before you today as we mark a significant milestone in our collective effort to rid our society of expired drugs,” Tony said. He emphasized that addressing the challenges posed by expired drugs is a national responsibility, requiring concerted efforts from all stakeholders.

Tony further lamented the country’s chaotic drug distribution system and the continued operation of unauthorized drug markets, which exacerbate the problem. He warned that unless these issues are addressed, expired medications would remain a persistent threat to public health.

Achievements and Financial Burden of Disposal

The ACPN successfully forfeited expired drugs worth ₦460,864,804, a significant step in ensuring these harmful substances are removed from circulation. Tony called for national replication of such initiatives and the establishment of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the systematic collection, forfeiture, and destruction of expired drugs.

He also appealed to the government to waive fees associated with the disposal of expired drugs, arguing that the financial burden discourages pharmacies from voluntarily forfeiting such medications.

“Pharmacists should not be penalized for doing the right thing,” he said, advocating for policies that encourage professional integrity and compliance.

Statewide Collection Initiative

To facilitate the initiative, ACPN established collection centers in Akwa Ibom’s three senatorial zones—Uyo, Eket, and Ikot Ekpene—allowing community pharmacies across the state to safely and efficiently dispose of expired drugs. According to Pharm. Donatus Adigom, the association’s Financial Secretary, the goal is to ensure proper documentation, disposal, and destruction of expired drugs while upholding professional standards.

Adigom reaffirmed ACPN’s commitment to safeguarding public health and maintaining the highest ethical standards in pharmaceutical practice. He noted that the establishment of regional collection points makes it easier for pharmacists to participate in the effort to eliminate expired medications.

NAFDAC’s Role in Disposal

During the handover event, Mr. Naeche John, the State Coordinator for NAFDAC in Akwa Ibom, commended ACPN for its proactive efforts. He assured attendees that the agency would ensure the proper destruction of the expired drugs, in compliance with regulatory and environmental standards.

“This handover is a clear demonstration of the dedication of pharmacists to the safety and well-being of Nigerians,” John stated. He praised the ACPN for taking the lead in addressing the dangers posed by expired drugs and reiterated NAFDAC’s commitment to ensuring that the drugs are disposed of appropriately.

The Bigger Picture: Building a Safer Pharmaceutical Ecosystem

The collection and disposal of expired drugs align with ACPN’s broader mission of creating a safer pharmaceutical ecosystem. By removing expired drugs from circulation, the initiative reduces the risk of harmful health outcomes and counterfeit drug practices while promoting public confidence in the healthcare system.

Tony stressed the need for similar programs to be implemented across Nigeria, as well as greater collaboration between government agencies, professional associations, and the public.

“Until we overhaul the chaotic drug distribution system in Nigeria and permanently close unauthorized drug markets, the repercussions of this problem will continue to plague us,” he said.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The ACPN Akwa Ibom’s successful mop-up of expired drugs is a commendable step toward addressing the public health risks posed by these substances. However, it also underscores the need for nationwide efforts to address the systemic issues fueling the proliferation of expired medications.

As the government considers policies to ease the burden of disposal and professional bodies like ACPN champion these initiatives, the collaborative effort between regulators, health professionals, and communities remains crucial in ensuring a safer and healthier Nigeria.