NAFDAC Destroys Over N1 Trillion Worth of Fake Drugs in Anambra
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed counterfeit, substandard, and expired pharmaceutical products worth over N1 trillion at the Anambra State Waste Management Authority Dump Site in Awka.
Speaking at the destruction site on Friday, NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by the agency’s South-East Zonal Director, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to eradicating fake and illicit drugs from circulation.
The confiscated drugs, which included banned substances like Analgin and high-dose Tramadol (225mg), were seized during a month-long enforcement operation across major drug markets in Onitsha (Ogbu-Ogu) and Aba (Ekumi/Tenant Road).
NAFDAC’s Ongoing War Against Fake Drugs
Addressing journalists before the destruction exercise, Dr. Iluyomade described the scale of counterfeit drug circulation as alarming, noting that over 100 trucks of 40ft containers filled with illicit medicines were seized from the targeted markets.
“The sheer volume of these fake drugs is mind-boggling. The correlation between illicit pharmaceuticals and insecurity cannot be ignored. The amount of controlled substances confiscated during this operation alone is enough to destabilize a country,” he said.
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The enforcement operation, which ran from February 10 to March 5, is part of NAFDAC’s intensified campaign to rid Nigerian markets of counterfeit and dangerous drugs.
“We want Nigerians to be assured that the medicines now available in legal markets are safe and effective. However, we urge the public to remain vigilant—if you see something, say something,” he added.
The Anambra State government, represented by the Managing Director of the State Waste Management Authority, Mike Ozoemanam, praised NAFDAC for its efforts in sanitizing the drug market.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo, who had personally visited the affected markets during the enforcement exercise, was said to have taken a firm stance against fake drugs, recognizing their devastating effects, particularly on youth in the state.
“Anambra people are peace-loving, and we do not want illicit drugs in our state. The governor’s visit was not political; it was to support NAFDAC in this fight. We urge the agency to continue its relentless efforts,” Ozoemanam stated.
Prof. Adeyeye acknowledged the media’s role in amplifying awareness against fake drugs and called on every Nigerian to take a stand against illicit pharmaceuticals.
“The fight against fake drugs is not just NAFDAC’s battle; it is a collective responsibility. Every Nigerian must speak out and report suspicious drug sales,” she urged.
With this latest crackdown, NAFDAC has sent a strong message to counterfeit drug manufacturers and distributors, reinforcing its resolve to protect public health and ensure the safety of pharmaceuticals in Nigeria.
By PRNigeria
