By Goodness Ndukuba, Awka on March 21, 2025

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Friday destroyed fake, counterfeit, and substandard drugs worth over N1 trillion in Awka, the capital of Anambra State. 

The destroyed items included Analgin, Tramadol, and various pediatric pharmaceuticals, which had been stored in prohibited areas or were banned by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The drugs were part of the haul resulting from the raid and subsequent closure of the Onitsha Bridge Head Drug Market and the Aba Drug Market in Abia State. 

Prof. Christian Adeyeye, NAFDAC’s Director-General, who was represented by the Zonal Director for the Southeast, Dr. Martin Iluyomade, said the closure and raids of the markets were in response to public complaints regarding the prevalence of fake, substandard, and counterfeit drugs in the Southeast.

“Many of these drugs are banned, such as Analgin and certain pediatric medications, and they were stored in places that violate WHO regulations,”

“It is our responsibility to ensure that these products are safe and fit for human consumption," Iluyomade said.

He further explained that the drugs being destroyed were from the Aba and Onitsha markets, including products intended for pregnant women.

“These drugs were transported in a 140-foot truck, valued at over N1 trillion, and were supposed to be stored at specific temperatures. However, they were kept in markets that do not meet the required standards.

“The volume of drugs found in these two markets could destabilize the country, and many of these are narcotic drugs associated with criminal activity.

“People who consume these drugs are not only harming themselves but also using them to commit crimes, which contributes to the growing insecurity in our country.”

Iluyomade added.

Speaking also ate the event, Mr Mike Ozoemena, the Managing Director of the Anambra State Waste Management Agency (ASMATA), emphasized the support shown by Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo.

“Gov. Soludo has shown tremendous support to NAFDAC’s efforts, particularly from the time the market was closed.

He visited the market personally to assess the situation and ensure the safety of our people in fighting criminality in the state, particularly due to the role narcotics play in fueling crime. 

"As a government, we will continue to provide NAFDAC with all the assistance they need,” he noted.

Source Daily Sports Nigeria

Posted March 21, 2025

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