The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has successfully conducted a comprehensive mop-up operation across several key markets in Maiduguri, Borno State.
NAFDAC Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola announced the development in a statement issued on Tuesday, September 24, 2024.
Akintola said the initiative was aimed at removing drugs and food items contaminated by recent floodwaters to prevent their re-introduction into sales as part of market control strategy, thereby prevented possible outbreak of diseases.
The mop-up operation took place at the Gamboru Drug and Food Market, Monday Market, Open Air-Theatre Drug Market and Gwange Drug Market.
NAFDAC Director North-East, Mr. Kenneth Azikiwe stated, “the recent floods have posed a significant risk to public health by contaminating food and drug supplies. Our swift action in these markets is crucial to ensure that only safe and uncontaminated products are available to the public.
“During the operation, directed by the Director General Prof (Mrs.) Christianah Mojisola Adeyeye NAFDAC officials drawn from Borno, Yobe, Gombe and the NAFDAC area laboratory meticulously inspected and removed all compromised items (food and drugs) valued at over 5 billion naira.
“The Agency also provided guidelines to market vendors and the public on how to identify and handle potentially contaminated products in the future.
“Furthermore, all manufacturing facilities engaged in the production of regulated products located within the flood affected areas have been closed down to allow for GMP reassessment before production will begin again”, he said.
NAFDAC therefore pledged to continue with the surveillance and monitoring to cover all parts of Maiduguri metropolis not covered in the operation.
“NAFDAC remains committed to safeguarding the health of Nigerians by ensuring that all food and drug products meet the highest standards of safety and quality. Through rigorous inspections, testing, and public education, NAFDAC works to protect the health and well-being of all Nigerians.
“The Agency urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or compromised products to the nearest NAFDAC office”, the statement concluded.
