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 safeguarding public health by eliminating substandard and dangerous pharmaceutical products. She emphasized that NAFDAC remains determined to rid Nigeria of harmful and counterfeit drugs.
Prof. Adeyeye, represented by NAFDAC’s Director of Narcotics and Controlled Substances, Yedunni Adenuga, revealed that the agency has implemented strict regulations on the sale and distribution of pharmaceuticals to prevent counterfeit drugs from infiltrating the market.
As part of its enforcement operations, NAFDAC raided major drug markets in Idumota (Lagos), Onitsha (Anambra), Ariaria (Abia), and Ezeukwu (Abia), with support from the National Security Adviser. The crackdown involved over 1,000 security operatives from the Military, Police, and Department of State Services (DSS).
During these operations, NAFDAC confiscated several illegal and harmful drugs, including:
- Tramadol 225mg – A controlled substance known for its widespread abuse.
- Analgin – A banned painkiller in Nigeria due to its severe health risks.
- Other unregistered and substandard pharmaceutical products.
According to NAFDAC, these fake and dangerous drugs contribute to serious health hazards and insecurity across the country.
Several suspects were arrested during the three-week-long operation and are currently under investigation. The agency assured that those found guilty will face prosecution and legal sanctions.
NAFDAC urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious drug activities to help protect public health and prevent the circulation of fake and life-threatening pharmaceuticals.
