By Joy Odor
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has inaugurated a Federal Task Force to lead an aggressive nationwide campaign against counterfeit medicines and unwholesome processed foods, in what the agency describes as a “swift, decisive, and relentless” fight to protect Nigerians’ health.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja on Friday, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, said the proliferation of fake drugs and unsafe foods poses a grave threat to citizens, the healthcare system, and public trust.
She stressed that the menace demands urgent, coordinated action.
“This is not just an institutional duty, it is a national emergency. Lives are at stake every day,” Adeyeye declared. “We must act now with purpose, resolve, and unity.”
The DG revealed that between February and March 2025, NAFDAC carried out major raids in Onitsha and Ariaria markets, seizing and destroying more than 100 truckloads of counterfeit and substandard products valued at over ₦1 trillion.
The operations led to multiple arrests and the removal of fake medicines, unregistered drugs, and unsafe processed foods from circulation.
“This massive seizure sends a clear message, Nigeria is serious about protecting its people,” she said.
The new Task Force, empowered under Cap C 34 of Nigerian law, will work with law enforcement, industry stakeholders, and the public to strengthen enforcement, enhance surveillance, roll out awareness campaigns, and deploy technology to outpace criminal networks.
Prof. Adeyeye called for the active involvement of all sectors, government agencies, the private sector, consumers, and international partners, to tackle the problem head-on.
“This launch is a rallying point. The fight against counterfeit and fake products is a shared responsibility. Together, we will safeguard our citizens, uphold national health standards, and restore trust in our medicines and foods,” she affirmed.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, industry leaders, and other stakeholders pledged their support, describing the initiative as a critical step toward a healthier and safer Nigeria.
