NAFDAC destroys ₦1trillion fake drugs, others in Anambra

March 21, 2025

The National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed counterfeit, substandard, and fake pharmaceutical and other products worth over ₦1 trillion in Anambra State.

The destruction exercise, which took place at the Anambra State Waste Management Authority Dump Site in Agu Awka, was overseen by NAFDAC’s Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by the agency’s South-East Zonal Director, Dr. Martins Iluyomade.

The destroyed products included Analgin, controlled substances like Tramadol 225mg, and other fake, substandard, unregistered, and expired drugs.

These products were confiscated from Onitsha Bridge Head Drug Market (Ogbu-Ogu) and Ekumi/Tenant Road drug market in Aba.

Adeyeye reiterated NAFDAC’s commitment to ensuring the safety, wholesomeness, and effectiveness of food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, packaged water, and drinks for human consumption.

She emphasized the agency’s dedication to putting an end to substandard drugs and protecting Nigerians from harm.

The recent discovery of counterfeit products in major markets is alarming, with banned products like Analgin and controlled substances like Tramadol 225mg being sold openly.

NAFDAC’s enforcement exercise, which lasted from February 10 to March 5, confiscated bulk volumes of narcotics and unapproved medicines.

The estimated value of the destroyed products is over ₦1 trillion, with millions of people saved from potential harm.

NAFDAC’s management has pledged to continue the fight against fake drugs, acknowledging the complexity of the issue.

The agency has assured Nigerians that certified medicines are safe and fit for consumption, and it will maintain its commitment to protecting public health and safety.