The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) took decisive action against counterfeit, smuggled, and expired drugs on Wednesday by destroying items valued at approximately ₦11 billion. The destruction exercise took place at the Moniya dumpsite in the Akinyele Local Government Area of Ibadan, Oyo State.
Massive Destruction of Substandard Products
The Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by the agency’s South-West Zonal Director, Roseline Ajayi, addressed the public during the event. According to Adeyeye, the items destroyed were collected from five South-West states (excluding Lagos) and Kwara State, which falls under the North-Central Zone due to its proximity.
“These items include expired products voluntarily forfeited by distributors, unregistered and unwholesome items confiscated during raids on outlets and warehouses, counterfeit drugs, and smuggled unregistered imports,” she explained.
The total value of the destroyed products was estimated at ₦10,991,458,374.60. The range of confiscated items highlighted the pervasive nature of counterfeit and substandard products in the drug distribution network.
NAFDAC’s Commitment to Public Health
Prof. Adeyeye reiterated the agency’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that only safe, high-quality, and effective regulated products are available in the Nigerian market. She emphasized that the destruction of these products is a key aspect of NAFDAC’s enforcement and investigative activities.
“This destruction exercise is a vital component of NAFDAC’s investigative and enforcement efforts to eliminate unwholesome, substandard, and counterfeit products from the market,” she stated.
The agency also underscored the importance of the public destruction process as a deterrent. “This action sends a strong message that confiscated items will not be diverted for personal or illegal use. It’s a firm reminder that the agency is resolute in its mission to rid Nigeria of harmful products,” Adeyeye added.
Collaboration with Stakeholders
NAFDAC extended its gratitude to other government agencies and stakeholders who played a role in combating counterfeit drugs and substandard products. The Nigerian Customs Service, Nigerian Police, and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps were specifically recognized for their collaborative efforts in ensuring the success of NAFDAC’s enforcement activities.
Adeyeye called for stronger partnerships with the general public, urging citizens to be vigilant and report suspicious activities related to the production and distribution of counterfeit drugs. “The fight against counterfeit and substandard products cannot be won without the cooperation of every Nigerian. Together, we can safeguard the health of our nation and ensure the integrity of our food and drug sector,” she appealed.
NAFDAC’s Broader Mission
This latest exercise is part of NAFDAC’s larger mission to protect public health through various proactive measures. These include:
- Product Registration: Ensuring that all regulated products undergo rigorous assessment and meet quality standards before being allowed into the market.
- Laboratory Testing: Conducting detailed scientific analysis to verify the safety, efficacy, and quality of food, drugs, and other regulated items.
- Inspections and Raids: Regular checks on distribution channels, warehouses, and retail outlets to identify and seize counterfeit or unregistered products.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public on the dangers of counterfeit drugs and how to identify authentic products.
The Dangers of Counterfeit Products
Counterfeit and substandard drugs pose significant risks to public health. They can lead to treatment failure, adverse health effects, and even death. Moreover, counterfeit products undermine public trust in the healthcare system and contribute to economic losses.
In Nigeria, the prevalence of counterfeit drugs has been a long-standing challenge. This issue is exacerbated by porous borders, inadequate regulation in some areas, and the high demand for affordable medication. NAFDAC’s aggressive enforcement actions, such as the destruction exercise in Ibadan, are critical steps in curbing this menace.
A Call to Action
Prof. Adeyeye closed her address by reaffirming NAFDAC’s mission to ensure that Nigeria’s food and drug sector is safe and free from harmful products. She urged all Nigerians to join hands with the agency in its efforts.
“The responsibility of keeping Nigeria safe from counterfeit and unwholesome products does not rest on NAFDAC alone. It requires the collective effort of all stakeholders, including consumers, distributors, and regulatory bodies. Together, we can protect our nation’s health and future,” she said.
Conclusion
The destruction of fake and expired drugs worth ₦11 billion in Ibadan is a testament to NAFDAC’s dedication to safeguarding public health and eliminating counterfeit products from circulation. Through collaboration, enforcement, and public awareness, the agency continues to set a high standard for regulatory oversight in Nigeria’s food and drug sector.
