NAFDAC Inaugurates Rivers Task Force to Combat Fake Drugs
By Afolabi Nelson
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has inaugurated a Rivers State Task Force on Counterfeit, Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods as part of renewed efforts to protect public health and sanitise drug and food markets in the state.
The task force comprises representatives of NAFDAC, the Rivers State Ministry of Health, the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Police Force, working together to enforce standards and disrupt the circulation of illegal products.
NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by South South Zonal Director, Pharm. Chukwuma Oligbo, said the task force would carry out intelligence driven surveillance, coordinated market inspections, rapid testing where necessary, and transparent reporting, while encouraging the public to report suspicious products through approved channels.
Chairman of the Federal Task Force, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, said the body derives its powers from an Act of the National Assembly, giving it authority to seize counterfeit or banned products, break into facilities where reasonable suspicion exists, and seal premises, a move Rivers State health authorities say is crucial to safeguarding lives and restoring confidence in the health system.
