On Friday, the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control demolished counterfeit, substandard, and fake pharmaceuticals along with other goods valued at more than one trillion naira at the Anambra State Waste Management Authority Dump Site located in Agu Awka, Anambra State.
Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director General of the organization, conducted an inspection at the dumping ground situated within the Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra. She stated that the contaminated items consist of medications like Analgin and controlled drugs including Tramadol 225mg, among other substances.
Adeyeye, represented by the South-East Zonal Director of NAFDAC, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, stated that counterfeit, subpar, unapproved, and outdated medications were seized from the Onitsha Bridge Head Drug Market (Ogbu-Ogu) and Ekumi/Tenant Road drug market in Aba.
Shortly before the items were destroyed, the head of NAFDAC addressed the press and reaffirmed their dedication to guaranteeing that foods, medications, cosmetics, medical equipment, chemicals, bottled water, and beverages remain safe, nutritious, and efficacious for human use.
She said, “Today, we are destroying the fake, counterfeit and illicit drugs that were seized during our one month enforcement exercise. The products that were classified as illicit, expired, and banned were confiscated during a raid on Onitsha Bridge Head Drug Market (Ogbu- Ogu) and Ekumi/ Tenant Road drug market in Aba.
The recent uncovering of fake goods and various items in these significant marketplaces within the nation is astounding. Finding unauthorized products, prohibited items like Analgin, along with controlled substances such as Tramadol 225mg among others, contributes greatly to the insecurity issues plaguing our country.
She observed that the organization plans to eliminate inferior medications.
She stated, "Our organization has recognized that it’s time to stop the flow of inferior medications in Nigeria. Various appeals and concerns have been raised, and we’ve heeded these warnings by revising our methods. We've reassured Nigerians that they can rest easy knowing all currently available medicines are safe and suitable for use."
The compliance operation lasted around a month, from February 10 to March 5, and we emphasize that this is part of an ongoing process. The present leadership at NAFDAC is dedicated without renewal to eradicate counterfeit medications. Although we've mentioned that medicines undergo certification, they can still find their way into circulation.
Large quantities of illegal drugs and unapproved medications, which have been deemed unsafe due to their effects, were seized. During our investigation, we discovered an amount sufficient to disrupt the stability of a nation. Research indicates a connection between these substances and increased security concerns.
The quantity is enormous and colossal, ranking among the highest globally. Starting from Onitsha and Aba, the combined number of trucks carrying counterfeit medications that have left these markets exceeds 100 forty-foot containers. The estimated worth of the items being discarded today surpasses a trillion naira. This single operation has safeguarded millions of individuals.
We guarantee all Nigerians that the medications currently available in the marketplace are genuine and effective. We encourage citizens to speak up if they notice anything amiss.
Nevertheless, the head of NAFDAC praised the media for its efforts in promoting the battle against counterfeit medications in the nation. They urged each person to contribute their voices to this cause against fake drugs.
Mike Ozoemanam, the Managing Director of Anambra State Waste Management Authority, stood in for Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and praised NAFDAC for cleansing the market of counterfeit and illegal pharmaceuticals.
He stated, "During the enforcement operation, the governor went to the marketplace. His intention was not to engage in political activities, but rather to back up the regulatory body. By tackling the issue head-on, recognizing the link between counterfeit medications and their impact on young people, he demonstrated decisive action. As a result of this approach, the state has become much more peaceful."
Individuals from Anambra are known for being virtuous and peaceful. We encourage NAFDAC to continue their efforts in combating counterfeit and illegal substances. Regardless of whether these items are prohibited or tainted, we aim to prevent them from entering Anambra State.
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