NAFDAC inaugurates Rivers task force to tackle counterfeit drugs, unsafe foods
NAFDAC Launches Rivers State Task Force to Combat Counterfeit Drugs and Unsafe Foods
Port Harcourt, Nigeria — The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched the Rivers State Task Force on Counterfeit, Fake Drugs, and Unwholesome Processed Foods. This initiative aims to address the increasing circulation of unsafe medicines and processed foods in the region.
The task force comprises representatives from NAFDAC, the Rivers State Ministry of Health, the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Police Force.
During the inauguration, NAFDAC Director General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by Pharm. Chukwuma Oligbo of NAFDAC’s South-South Zone, highlighted the urgent need for Rivers State to lead efforts against counterfeit medicines and unsafe packaged foods. She stated that these issues threaten lives, hinder healthcare outcomes, distort market conditions, and contribute to rising health costs and productivity losses.
According to a statement from Cyril Monye, NAFDAC’s Public Relations Officer for the South-South region, the task force’s responsibilities include enforcing industry standards, coordinating intelligence-driven surveillance, removing illegal products from circulation, and supporting lawful manufacturers and traders to ensure compliance. The task force will also conduct coordinated market inspections, perform rapid testing as needed, and provide accessible channels for citizens to report suspicious products.
Dr. Martins Iluyomade, Chairman of the Federal Task Force on Counterfeit Drugs, speaking virtually from Lagos, confirmed that the task force operates under legal authority granted by an Act of the National Assembly, which overrides any similar state initiatives. He outlined the task force’s authority to seize unlicensed drugs and, based on reasonable suspicion, to enter facilities to confiscate counterfeit products and seal premises if necessary.
Emmanuel Onogwu, the NAFDAC State Coordinator in Rivers State, reaffirmed the task force’s commitment to supporting compliance with national regulations, disrupting illicit trade, and protecting consumers throughout the supply chain.
Dr. Chidinma Adaeze Oreh, Rivers State Commissioner for Health, represented by Halliday Charles, Director of Pharmaceutical Services, condemned the prevalence of counterfeit drugs and unwholesome processed foods. She emphasized the threats these illegal activities pose to public health, patient safety, and the integrity of the healthcare system, stating, “As a government, we cannot and will not turn a blind eye to such threats.”
The inauguration concluded with the administration of oaths to task force members by Jumbo Washington from the NAFDAC Enforcement and Investigation Directorate.
