By Bavoriat Clara
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has inaugurated a Federal Task Force to combat counterfeit and substandard drugs, as well as unwholesome processed foods, across Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja, Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, described the menace as an “insidious threat” endangering public health, undermining the integrity of the healthcare system, and eroding consumer trust.
“The proliferation of counterfeit and unsafe products demands our immediate and unwavering attention,” she stated, noting that the new Task Force empowered under Cap C 34 will adopt a swift, coordinated, and multi-sectoral approach to tackling the problem.
Prof. Adeyeye highlighted recent high-impact enforcement actions by NAFDAC, including coordinated raids between February and March 2025 at major drug markets such as Onitsha and Ariaria.
These operations led to the evacuation and destruction of more than 100 truckloads of fake and substandard goods valued at over ₦1 trillion. Numerous illegal traders were arrested, and large quantities of unregistered medicines and unsafe processed foods were seized.“These seizures not only removed dangerous products from circulation but also sent a strong message that Nigeria is serious about protecting its citizens,” she said.
The NAFDAC boss stressed that the fight against counterfeit products is urgent, warning that delays in action increase risks to lives.
She pledged that the agency would intensify surveillance, strengthen enforcement, and collaborate with industry stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, and the public.
Prof. Adeyeye also called for collective responsibility, urging government bodies, the private sector, and consumers to contribute expertise, resources, and commitment to the mission.“In the coming weeks, we will step up our operations, launch public awareness campaigns, and leverage innovation and technology to stay ahead of those undermining our health standards,” she assured.
She described the inauguration as a rallying point to protect citizens, uphold national health standards, and restore trust in the country’s medicines and food supply.
The event was attended by the Honourable Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, key industry stakeholders, and security agencies.
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