In an apparent move to improve the health of its populace, the Federal Government has launched a Federal Task Force dedicated to combating counterfeit drugs and unwholesome processed foods across to the nation.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony held in Abuja on Friday, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate stated that the exercise was crucial in the country’s effort to confront pervasive and growing threat of some Nigerians.
Pate explained that for the health sector to have a clean bill of administration, there was need to strengthened the governance of the sector:
“NAFDAC is one of those regulators that we have been working. The goal of NAFDAC is to strengthen the regulatory capacity hence the raising up of this taskforce. This is not obtainable only in Nigeria.
“How does this taskforce relate to NAFDAC majorly, the agency regulate drugs, food and other items. infectious diseases may affects somebody who may have hypertension, diabetes through the wrong drug intake,
“These set of people continue to take drugs, but the drugs won’t work and this is because they have taken the counterfeit drug, as well as wholesome processed foods. These factors further accelerate cardiovascular diseases like strokes, cancers.
“To unlock the healthcare value chain, which is the third pillar of Mr President agenda, we need a strong regulator, strong regulator will help the industry get the muscle memory and produce good quality products.
“If you don’t have a regulator, and you produce something that is good quality, someone else can produce a substandard and compete for the same package,” he said.
The Minister however commended NAFDAC for its unwavering commitment in guiding against substandard in the area of food production.
On her part, the Director General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye stated that the proliferation of counterfeit and substandard medicines, as well as unsafe processed foods, was a challenge that demanded immediate and unwavering attention.
“Today, we confront an insidious threat that jeopardizes the health of our citizens, the integrity of our healthcare system, and the trust that Nigerians place in the products they consume daily.
“The establishment of this Task Force, empowered by the provisions of Cap C 34, is a testament to our collective resolve. It is a recognition that the fight against these illicit products requires a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach-one that is swift, decisive, and relentless”, she said.
Highlighting recent efforts by NAFDAC, the DG stated: “Between February and March 2025, NAFDAC conducted coordinated operations at major drug markets, notably Onitsha and Ariaria markets. 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”.
Speaking further, Prof. Adeyeye emphasized that that, “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”.
She however noted that success would depends on collaboration. “It is only through the collective efforts of all stakeholders – government, industry, consumers, and partners-that we can effectively address this menace. I call upon every partner to bring their expertise, resources, and unwavering commitment to this vital mission”.
She disclosed that in the coming weeks and months, the agency would intensify its efforts, roll out public awareness campaigns, and leverage innovation and technology to stay ahead of those who seek to undermine Nigeria’s health and safety standards.
“Let this launch serve as a rallying point-a reminder that the fight against counterfeit and fake products is a shared responsibility and an urgent priority. Together, we will protect our citizens, uphold our national health standards, and restore trust in the integrity of our medicines and foods.
“I thank the Honourable Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, our partners, and all stakeholders for their dedication to this cause. I am confident that with our combined resolve, we will turn the tide against this menace. Thank you and may we all remain steadfast in our commitment to a healthier and safer Nigeria”, she said.
