National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has stepped up its war on counterfeit drugs and unwholesome food products.
In a statement obtained by The Guardian, the agency vowed to make illicit trades unattractive to “merchants of death” and ensure the safety of food and drugs consumed by Nigerians.
This move comes in response to recent media reports and concerns about the activities of fake drug manufacturers and sellers of substandard food and beverages.
The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, said the agency had taken a resolute stance against criminal activities, highlighting the recent bust of a cartel producing fake wines and soft drinks in Aba, Abia State.
Adeyeye also expressed disappointment at negative media coverage (not in the Guardian), emphasising NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts, like the interception of counterfeiters in Eziukwu Market, Aba, as proof of their commitment.
She added that to crack down on illicit activities, NAFDAC had empowered officers from the Investigation and Enforcement (I&E) and Pharmacovigilance and Post Marketing Surveillance Directorates to apprehend those involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit drugs and substandard food items.
Adeyeye assured Nigerians that despite threats and attacks on NAFDAC officers, the agency remains undeterred in its mission to safeguard public health.
