The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has destroyed seized fake, expired, substandard, and falsified drugs and products worth N15 billion in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
The destroyed products included expired, counterfeit, uncontrolled, unregistered, and banned drugs such as Analgin, Cocodamol, Codeine cough syrup, Tramadol, Oxytocin, and various types of vaccines.
According to Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC Director General, the destruction of these products eliminates the risk of their re-entry into the Nigerian market and harming public health. “NAFDAC is resolutely committed to ensuring that foods, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, packaged water, and drinks are safe, wholesome, and effective for human consumption,” she emphasized.
Some notable seizures included 277 cartons of falsely labeled diclofenac containing over 100,000 tablets of anti-malaria drugs and 25 40ft containers of prohibited products, including Tramadol, Artesunate injections, and frozen poultry, handed over by the Nigeria Customs Service.
The destruction exercise was witnessed by top security agencies and regulatory bodies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Customs Service, and the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria. NAFDAC urges stakeholders to educate their families and wards about the dangers of patronizing quacks and unauthorized medicine dealers.
The agency seeks the cooperation of Nigerians in providing information to help prevent and ultimately eradicate the presence of unregistered and dangerous medicines and other volatile products from society. Prof. Adeyeye thanked the Nigeria Customs Service for handing over the prohibited products, acknowledging the strong support from various stakeholders.
The destruction of these products marks a significant step in ensuring public health safety and preventing the circulation of harmful substances in the country. NAFDAC’s efforts demonstrate its commitment to protecting the health and well-being of Nigerians.
