The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has intensified its efforts to combat the distribution of counterfeit and substandard drugs in Nigeria’s South-East region. Under the leadership of South-East Zonal Director, Pharmacist Martins Iluyomade, the agency has conducted a series of enforcement actions targeting major markets and clandestine operations involved in the illicit drug trade.
Ogbo Ogwu Market, Onitsha: In February 2025, NAFDAC operatives raided the Ogbo Ogwu Bridgehead Market in Onitsha, Anambra State. The operation led to the seizure of approximately 14 truckloads of fake, expired, and falsified drugs. Investigations revealed that some counterfeit medicines were concealed within shops selling plumbing materials, highlighting the deceptive tactics employed by illicit traders.
Ekumi Plaza at Ariaria International Market, Aba: NAFDAC sealed sections of Ekumi Plaza within the Ariaria International Market in Aba, Abia State, after discovering traders revalidating and relabeling expired medicines, baby foods, and beverages for sale to unsuspecting consumers. The agency’s actions aimed to curb the proliferation of adulterated products that pose significant health risks.
Eziukwu Market, Aba: Similar enforcement activities were carried out at Eziukwu Market, where NAFDAC uncovered large quantities of rebagged containers and fraudulent packaging materials. The agency sealed shops involved in the sale of counterfeit and expired drugs, emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding public health.
In a significant breakthrough, NAFDAC uncovered a two-storey building in the Osisioma Ngwa area of Abia State, functioning as a major depot for expired and falsified drugs. The facility, located near the Ariaria International Market, housed machines used to rebrand and alter expiry dates on medications. Seized items included expired potassium chloride, allergy medications, immune boosters, and cholesterol treatments. The operation led to several arrests, though the prime suspect remains at large.
Following these enforcement actions, NAFDAC engaged in discussions with Abia State Governor Alex Otti and local market leaders to address the impact on traders. As a result, the agency initiated the selective reopening of shops in affected markets, particularly those whose owners were exonerated from involvement in illicit activities. Pharmacist Martins Iluyomade emphasized that only areas with no cases against NAFDAC would be reopened, while shops dealing in medicines would remain sealed until compliance criteria are met.
Governor Otti reiterated the state’s commitment to eradicating the menace of fake drugs and warned property owners against allowing their premises to be used for the sale of counterfeit products. He assured full support for NAFDAC’s efforts to protect public health and uphold regulatory standards.
NAFDAC’s ongoing crackdown in the South-East region underscores its dedication to eliminating the distribution of counterfeit and substandard drugs, thereby ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers.
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