The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed counterfeit and expired drugs worth over ₦100 billion at the Moniya dump site in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking at the destruction exercise, NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ensuring the safety and efficacy of food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, packaged water, and beverages.
“As the lead agency and chair of the Federal Task Force on Fake and Counterfeit Drugs, NAFDAC is determined to rid Nigeria of harmful and substandard products,” she stated.
Prof. Adeyeye, represented by NAFDAC’s Director of Narcotics and Controlled Substances, Yedunni Adenuga, disclosed that the agency has put in place strict regulations for the licensing, sale, and distribution of pharmaceutical products to prevent fake drugs from infiltrating the market.
Major Crackdown on Open Drug Markets
She also highlighted NAFDAC’s recent enforcement operations in major drug markets, including Idumota (Lagos), Onitsha (Anambra), Ariaria (Abia), and Ezeukwu (Abia), which were carried out with the support of the National Security Adviser.
The raid involved over 1,000 security operatives, including personnel from the Military, Police, and Department of State Services (DSS).
Discovery of Banned and Unregistered Drugs
Among the illegal drugs seized were:
- Tramadol 225mg (a controlled substance frequently abused)
- Analgin (a banned painkiller in Nigeria)
- Other unregistered and substandard pharmaceutical products
According to NAFDAC, these substances contribute to health hazards and insecurity across the country.
Suspects Arrested, Investigations Ongoing
During the three-week-long crackdown, several suspects were apprehended and are currently under investigation.
“Those found culpable will be prosecuted and sanctioned in accordance with the law,” NAFDAC assured.
The agency urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious drug distribution activities to protect public health and security.