The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has made a major breakthrough in its fight against counterfeit medicines with the seizure of fake malaria drugs worth over ₦1.2 billion in Lagos State.
The operation, carried out at a warehouse in the Ilasa-Oshodi area, led to the interception of 277 cartons of counterfeit and unregistered Malamal Forte malaria drugs. The consignments had been illegally imported from Shanxi Tianyuan Pharmaceuticals Group in China and cleverly concealed in cartons labelled as Diclofenac Potassium 50mg. According to officials, the drugs were smuggled into the country under the false declaration of spare parts.
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, condemned the criminal trade and reassured Nigerians that the Agency remains resolute in eliminating counterfeit and substandard medicines from circulation. She noted that the successful seizure was achieved with the backing of the Presidency and the Federal Ministry of Health, underscoring the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health.
“This is part of our sustained nationwide operation to ensure that only safe, quality medicines are available to Nigerians. Counterfeit drugs endanger lives and weaken trust in the healthcare system. We will not relent in our efforts to protect the people,” Prof. Adeyeye stated.
The agency reiterated its resolve to intensify surveillance, strengthen cross-border collaborations, and prosecute those behind the criminal network. The seized drugs will be destroyed to prevent them from re-entering circulation.
The operation serves as another reminder of the dangers posed by counterfeit pharmaceuticals, especially in a country battling malaria as one of its leading public health challenges.
📰 Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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