The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has successfully seized fake drugs valued at over N300 million in a large-scale raid conducted in Lagos. This operation is part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat the proliferation of counterfeit drugs and ensure the safety and well-being of the Nigerian public.
The raid, which was carried out on November 27, targeted several illegal warehouses and distribution centers suspected of housing counterfeit and substandard pharmaceutical products. During the operation, NAFDAC officials uncovered a significant quantity of fake medications, including antibiotics, pain relievers, and other commonly used drugs, all of which posed serious health risks to unsuspecting consumers.
Speaking on the operation, NAFDAC Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, expressed the agency’s commitment to tackling the menace of fake and unapproved drugs in Nigeria. "This seizure is a significant victory in our fight against the circulation of counterfeit drugs that endanger the lives of our citizens," Adeyeye stated. "The agency will continue to take decisive action to ensure that these harmful products are removed from the market, and those involved in this illicit trade are held accountable."
NAFDAC has warned that the presence of counterfeit drugs remains a major threat to public health, as these products are often made with harmful substances that do not meet safety or efficacy standards. The agency is calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious drugs or activities to the authorities.
The agency also urged the public to only purchase medications from licensed and accredited outlets, emphasizing that buying drugs from unauthorized sources greatly increases the risk of purchasing counterfeit or expired products.