The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has inaugurated the Federal Task Force for the purposes of combating counterfeit drugs and unwholesome processed foods in the country.
Speaking at the inauguration event in Abuja, the agency’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, maintained that Nigeria continued to face the insidious threat that jeopardizes the health of her citizens, the integrity of the nation’s healthcare system, and the trust that Nigerians placed in the products they consume daily.
According to her, the proliferation of counterfeit and substandard medicines, as well as unsafe processed foods, is a challenge that demands our immediate and unwavering attention.
She described the establishment of the Task Force in line with the agency enabling Act provisions of Cap C 34, as a testament to the citizens collective resolve the challenge and a recognition that the fight against these illicit products required a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach that is swift, decisive, and relentless.
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Adeyeye recalled some recent efforts by NAFDAC that exemplify the agency’s commitment to its mandate, noting that between February and March 2025, it conducted coordinated operations at major drug markets, notably Onitsha and Ariaria markets.
She said: “These operations resulted in the evacuation and destruction of over 100 trucks of counterfeit and substandard products, valued at over 1 trillion naira. This massive seizure not only removed dangerous products from circulation but also sent a strong message that Nigeria is serious about protecting its citizens.
“These operations led to the arrest of numerous illegal traders and the seizure of a wide range of fake medicines, unregistered drugs, and unwholesome processed foods. The scale of these seizures underscores the gravity of the threat and our unwavering commitment to combat it.
“These efforts exemplify that the fight against counterfeit products is urgent and ongoing. Lives are at stake every day, and delays in action only deepen the risks faced by our people. We must act now with purpose, resolve, and unity.
“NAFDAC stands ready to lead this charge. Our mandate is clear: to strengthen enforcement, enhance surveillance, and work collaboratively with industry stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, and the public to eradicate these illicit products from our markets”, the Director-General added.
However, she pointed out that the success of the goal depended on collaboration, adding that it is only through the collective efforts of all stakeholders – government, industry, consumers, and partners-that we can effectively address this menace.
Adeyeye urged every partner to bring their expertise, resources, and unwavering commitment to this vital mission, hinting that in the coming weeks and months, the agency will intensify its efforts, roll out public awareness campaigns, and leverage innovation and technology to stay ahead of those who seek to undermine health and safety standards of the citizens
She explained that the launch of the task force would serve as a rallying point-a reminder that the fight against counterfeit and fake products is a shared responsibility and an urgent priority, and that through it stakeholders will work together to “protect our citizens, uphold our national health standards, and restore trust in the integrity of our medicines and foods.”
