By Doris Obinna
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administrationand Control (NAFDAC) has reaffirmed itscommitment to eradicating the menace of counterfeit drugs and unwholesomeproducts from the Nigerian market.
This is coming in response to a recent negative pressconcerning the activities of fake drug manufacturers and sellers of substandardfood and beverages.
NAFDAC said it is intensifying efforts to ensure thesafety of drugs and food consumed by Nigerians.
In a statement signed by the Resident MediaConsultant, Sayo Akintola, said, the agency, led by Director-General, Prof.Mojisola Adeyeye, stands resolute against a campaign of calumny launched bythose who seek to profit at the expense of the well-being of fellow citizens.
“The recent exposure of a cartel involved in theproduction of fake wines and soft drinks in Aba, Abia State, underscores thegravity of the situation.
“Adeyeye clarified that NAFDAC brought the activitiesof these nefarious individuals to the public’s attention to safeguard citizensduring the Yuletide festivities, cautioning against consuming potentiallyharmful substances disguised as cheap wines and soft drinks.
“The director-general expressed dismay at theuncomplimentary commentaries in the media, highlighting the interception ofcounterfeiters in Eziukwu Market, Aba, as an example of NAFDAC’s commitment.She emphasized that the agency would not be deterred by unfounded allegations,urging the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
“Adeyeye disclosed that officers from theInvestigation and Enforcement (I&E) and Pharmacovigilance and PostMarketing Surveillance Directorates have been empowered to apprehend thoseinvolved in the production and distribution of counterfeit drugs andsubstandard food items.
“Despite numerous life-threatening encounters andattacks on NAFDAC officers, Adeyeye assured that the agency wemains undeterredin its mission to safeguard the health of Nigerians. She urgedcitizens to assist by providing useful information on the activities ofcounterfeiters, emphasising, ‘they live and operate in our midst. We should saysomething when we see something.’
“Calling for the support of the 10th NationalAssembly, Adeyeye appealed for the expedited review of penalties againstcounterfeiting. She argued that stiff penalties, without an option of a fine,would discourage perpetrators from engaging in such illicit trades.
“NAFDAC, having achieved ISO 9001:2015 certificationand World Health Organisation (WHO) maturity level three, continues in its efforts to combat the scourge of substandard medicines.”
He added that agency pledged that it would persistwith sensitisation activities across the country in the New Year, while ensuringNigerians are aware of the threats posed by counterfeit products, it also urgedconsumers to scrutinise branded drinks or drugs before consumption.