NAFDAC Boss Warns Against Fake and Counterfeit Drugs 

Nafdac DG, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye

The Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, has raised an alarm about the high level of fake, substandard, and counterfeit drugs circulating in Nigeria. Speaking at a sensitisation programme in Ibadan, Oyo State, she expressed deep concern over the harm these fake products could cause to users. 

Health Risks of Fake Drugs 

Represented by the Zonal Director, Roselyn Ajayi, Prof. Adeyeye warned that fake drugs could seriously affect people’s health because of the harmful substances they contain. She stressed the importance of raising awareness to prevent people from using these dangerous products. 

NAFDAC’s Strategy to Fight Counterfeit Drugs 

NAFDAC plans to intensify its campaign to reduce the sale and distribution of fake drugs. Prof. Adeyeye revealed that a recent survey showed that fake and substandard medicines are widespread across the country. As a result, NAFDAC is focusing on engaging healthcare providers and pharmacists to work together in the fight against counterfeit medicines. She mentioned that counterfeiters are using advanced technology to create fake products, making it harder to detect them. This is why NAFDAC is educating healthcare providers and distributors on how to identify these fake drugs. 

The level of prevalence of substandard and falsified products is high across the nation… Fakers and counterfeiters are getting smarter and faster, taking advantage of the possibilities and opportunities of advancement in technology.” – Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, Director General, NAFDAC 

Community Engagement and Advocacy 

The sensitization programme is just the first step in NAFDAC’s wider efforts. Prof. Adeyeye said the agency will also visit churches, mosques, traditional rulers, and other community leaders to educate people on how to avoid buying fake products. By informing the public and working with pharmacists, NAFDAC aims to reduce the prevalence of fake drugs. 

Appeal to Nigerians 

Adebayo Gbadamosi, the chairman of the Oyo State Association of Community Pharmacists, also urged Nigerians to always buy drugs from registered pharmacists. He advised that people could check the authenticity of drugs by using scratch-off labels on the packaging. By doing this, Nigerians can avoid falling victim to counterfeit drugs and help discourage the sale of fake products.  

NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts to combat the spread of fake and counterfeit drugs in Nigeria are vital in protecting public health. Through increased sensitization campaigns, partnerships with healthcare providers, and community outreach, the agency aims to reduce the prevalence of harmful, substandard products. The public is urged to remain vigilant, purchase medicines from registered pharmacists, and check the authenticity of drugs to avoid falling victim to counterfeiters. By working together, Nigerians can help reduce the impact of fake drugs and promote a safer healthcare system.