NAFDAC launches major offensive against Substandard Medicines: over 100 truckloads seized

In a significant move to protect public health, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has successfully evacuated over 100 truckloads of substandard and banned medicines from markets across Nigeria. The operations, which took place over six weeks, targeted the bustling Idumota Market in Lagos and markets in Onitsha and Aba.

The concerning details were revealed in a press statement issued on Sunday, signed by Sayo Akintola, the agency’s Resident Consultant. According to NAFDAC’s Director, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, these substandard medicines pose a grave threat, potentially diminishing the quality of life for millions of Nigerians if not effectively curbed.

“Allowing these dangerous products into circulation could severely undermine public health and destabilize our nation. For individuals relying on medications for chronic conditions, the consequences could be fatal,” Adeyeye stated during a press briefing in Lagos.

The enforcement initiatives concluded in Idumota and Aba on February 28, 2025, while the operation in Onitsha wrapped up on March 8. Prof. Adeyeye reported the seizure of unregistered, banned, and expired medicines, with an estimated total value exceeding one trillion naira.

Among the truckloads evacuated, 27 were destroyed from Idumota, while the remainder involved significant operations from Onitsha and Aba markets. Notably, 14 truckloads of violative medicines were confiscated from the Osisioma warehouse alone—a concerning indicator of the scale of illicit trade in these areas.

The conditions under which many of these medicines were stored raise serious concerns, with some warehouses reported to be filled in oppressive heat and lacking proper ventilation. This exposure compromises the efficacy of medications before they even reach consumers.

Adeyeye highlighted the potential dangers posed by these medicines to Nigeria’s youth, emphasizing that the narcotics involved could have far-reaching implications, including fueling banditry and terrorism. Furthermore, the agency’s personnel faced considerable risks during these enforcement efforts. Past confrontations have turned violent, with NAFDAC officers suffering injuries while trying to dismantle the operations of illicit traders.

Despite these challenges, NAFDAC remains resolute in its mission. The agency aims to secure public health and foster legitimate trade within the pharmaceutical sector.

“This operation underscores our commitment to safeguarding the health of Nigerians and promoting ethical commerce,” Adeyeye affirmed. “We will continue to fight against the scourge of substandard medications to protect the lives of our citizens.”

NAFDAC’s rigorous actions signal a strong stance against the influx of counterfeit and harmful drugs, reinforcing the importance of ensuring safe access to effective medicines across Nigeria.NAFDAC Launches Major Offensive Against Substandard Medicines: Over 100 Truckloads Seized

In a significant move to protect public health, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has successfully evacuated over 100 truckloads of substandard and banned medicines from markets across Nigeria. The operations, which took place over six weeks, targeted the bustling Idumota Market in Lagos and markets in Onitsha and Aba.

The concerning details were revealed in a press statement issued on Sunday, signed by Sayo Akintola, the agency’s Resident Consultant. According to NAFDAC’s Director, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, these substandard medicines pose a grave threat, potentially diminishing the quality of life for millions of Nigerians if not effectively curbed.

“Allowing these dangerous products into circulation could severely undermine public health and destabilize our nation. For individuals relying on medications for chronic conditions, the consequences could be fatal,” Adeyeye stated during a press briefing in Lagos.

The enforcement initiatives concluded in Idumota and Aba on February 28, 2025, while the operation in Onitsha wrapped up on March 8. Prof. Adeyeye reported the seizure of unregistered, banned, and expired medicines, with an estimated total value exceeding one trillion naira.

Among the truckloads evacuated, 27 were destroyed from Idumota, while the remainder involved significant operations from Onitsha and Aba markets. Notably, 14 truckloads of violative medicines were confiscated from the Osisioma warehouse alone—a concerning indicator of the scale of illicit trade in these areas.

The conditions under which many of these medicines were stored raise serious concerns, with some warehouses reported to be filled in oppressive heat and lacking proper ventilation. This exposure compromises the efficacy of medications before they even reach consumers.

Adeyeye highlighted the potential dangers posed by these medicines to Nigeria’s youth, emphasizing that the narcotics involved could have far-reaching implications, including fueling banditry and terrorism. Furthermore, the agency’s personnel faced considerable risks during these enforcement efforts. Past confrontations have turned violent, with NAFDAC officers suffering injuries while trying to dismantle the operations of illicit traders.

Despite these challenges, NAFDAC remains resolute in its mission. The agency aims to secure public health and foster legitimate trade within the pharmaceutical sector.

“This operation underscores our commitment to safeguarding the health of Nigerians and promoting ethical commerce,” Adeyeye affirmed. “We will continue to fight against the scourge of substandard medications to protect the lives of our citizens.”

NAFDAC’s rigorous actions signal a strong stance against the influx of counterfeit and harmful drugs, reinforcing the importance of ensuring safe access to effective medicines across Nigeria.