By Adenike Lawal
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has destroyed counterfeit products worth over ₦120 billion across Nigeria from July to December 2024.
The operation covered all six geopolitical zones, including the Federal Capital Territory.
In a statement, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health, especially during the festive season.
She urged Nigerians to purchase food and beverages only from reputable outlets with clear addresses to enable effective monitoring and tracking.
Prof. Adeyeye cautioned against consuming unregistered medicines and packaged foods, warning that unusually low prices may indicate compromised products.
In December alone, NAFDAC destroyed ₦11 billion worth of expired and unregistered pharmaceuticals in Ibadan and seized counterfeit alcoholic beverages and medicines worth billions in Lagos.
In Nasarawa State, the agency uncovered a counterfeit rice factory, confiscating over 1,600 bags valued at ₦5 billion.
Additionally, in Aba, Abia State, NAFDAC shut down 150 shops producing counterfeit goods, including beverages and revalidated food items, valued at ₦5 billion.
Prof. Adeyeye labeled counterfeiters as “merchants of death” and vowed to intensify efforts to ensure that only safe, high-quality food and medicines are available in Nigeria.
