The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has seized a large consignment of counterfeit malaria drugs in Lagos State, valued at approximately N1.2 billion. According to a statement released by the agency, the fake drugs were discovered in a warehouse located in the Ilasa-Oshodi area of the state.

The seized drugs, totalling 277 cartons, were found to be unregistered Malamal Forte malaria drugs, which were cleverly concealed in cartons labelled as Diclofenac Potassium 50mg. Investigations revealed that the counterfeit drugs were illegally imported from China, specifically from the Shanxi Tianyuan Pharmaceuticals Group, and were falsely declared as spare parts in the shipping container.

NAFDAC’s Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, has reiterated the agency’s commitment to eradicating counterfeit and substandard medicines from Nigeria, with the full support of the Presidency and the Federal Ministry of Health. This operation is part of a broader nationwide effort by NAFDAC to protect public health and ensure the availability of safe and quality medicines to Nigerians.

The seizure of these counterfeit malaria drugs highlights the ongoing challenge of combating fake and substandard medicines in Nigeria. The country has struggled with the issue of counterfeit drugs, which can have devastating consequences for public health. NAFDAC’s efforts to tackle this problem are crucial, and the agency’s collaboration with other government agencies and international partners is essential in this fight.

The agency’s actions demonstrate its resolve to safeguard the health and well-being of Nigerians, and its commitment to ensuring that only safe and effective medicines are available in the country. As NAFDAC continues its nationwide operation, it is likely that more counterfeit and substandard medicines will be uncovered, and the agency will need to remain vigilant in its efforts to protect public health.