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. The fake medicines were discovered in a warehouse in the Ilasa‑Oshodi area and comprised 277 cartons of unregistered Malamal Forte malaria tablets. To conceal their true nature, the cartons were mislabeled as Diclofenac Potassium 50 mg.
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, reiterated the agency’s commitment to eradicating counterfeit and substandard medicines from Nigeria, with full support from the Presidency and the Federal Ministry of Health.
This operation forms part of a broader nationwide effort by NAFDAC to protect public health and ensure the availability of safe, quality medicines for Nigerians. The seizure underscores the ongoing challenge of combating fake and substandard drugs, which can have devastating consequences for public health. NAFDAC’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 operations, more counterfeit and substandard medicines are likely to be uncovered, requiring the agency to remain vigilant in its efforts to protect public health.
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