By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed counterfeit, substandard, falsified, expired and unwholesome regulated products valued at over ₦1.8 billion at the Kuje dumpsite in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The destruction exercise involved the incineration of counterfeit medicines, banned sachet alcohol, expired pharmaceuticals, fake chemicals and other unsafe products confiscated from various parts of Abuja and surrounding areas.
NAFDAC disclosed that the seized items were recovered during enforcement operations carried out by the agency, while some of the products were voluntarily handed over by companies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN).
According to the agency, the exercise formed part of ongoing efforts to safeguard public health and rid the country of fake and harmful regulated products capable of endangering the lives of Nigerians.
Officials of the agency noted that the destruction of the products was conducted in line with environmental and safety regulations to prevent the items from re-entering circulation.
NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to intensifying surveillance, enforcement and collaboration with relevant stakeholders in the fight against counterfeit and substandard products across the country.
The agency also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious products or activities to the nearest NAFDAC office.