NAFDAC Destroys Over ₦55bn Fake and Expired Drugs in Oyo State
Fake and Expired Drugs Destroyed by NAFDAC
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed fake, expired, banned, and substandard drugs worth over ₦55 billion in Ibadan, Oyo State. The exercise took place at Moniya dumpsite in Akinyele Local Government Area, as part of NAFDAC’s routine efforts to protect public health and prevent dangerous products from returning to the market.
The destruction included illicit drugs, falsified medical products, unsafe cosmetics, unwholesome foods, food additives, and other expired NAFDAC-regulated products seized from manufacturers, importers, and distributors.
Why This Action Matters to Nigerians
Fake and expired drugs pose serious risks, including treatment failure, worsening illnesses, drug resistance, and even death. By destroying these products, NAFDAC is preventing them from being recycled back into circulation, where unsuspecting Nigerians could buy and use them.
This action reinforces the agency’s mandate to ensure that only safe, effective, and quality products are available in Nigeria.
Voluntary Compliance by Companies
NAFDAC revealed that more than 70 compliant companies, NGOs, and trade unions voluntarily handed over damaged and expired products for destruction. This cooperation shows growing awareness and responsibility within the private sector.
“The estimated street value of the products being destroyed today is ₦55,436,844,470,” said Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC Director-General, in a message delivered by Florence Ubah, Deputy Director, Investigation and Enforcement.
Joint Effort Against Fake Drugs
The agency praised the support of the Nigeria Police, Customs Service, Nigerian Army, DSS, NDLEA, NSCDC, Pharmacists Council of Nigeria, and other stakeholders for working together to fight substandard and falsified products.
NAFDAC also called on religious leaders, community leaders, health workers, journalists, and families to help educate the public on the dangers of buying medicines from unauthorised dealers and quacks.
What Nigerians Should Do
- Buy medicines only from registered pharmacies and hospitals
- Check for NAFDAC registration numbers
- Avoid roadside and unlicensed drug sellers
- Report suspicious products to NAFDAC
The destruction of ₦55bn worth of fake and expired drugs is a major win for public health in Nigeria. However, lasting safety depends on collective action. Nigerians must stay informed, buy responsibly, and support NAFDAC’s efforts to keep dangerous products off the streets.
