Antimalarials, antibiotics, antihypertensives, anti-diabetic medicines, and lifestyle medications that are subpar and counterfeit are in circulation, according to a warning from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)
The agency made this statement yesterday in Kaduna at a community sensitisation event for stakeholders on standard and fake medications in Nigeria.
Speaking at the workshop, the Agency Director for the North West Zone Bala Mshelia explained that the goal was to educate participants about counterfeit and subpar medications, which have grown to be a global issue and pose significant public health risks to National Medicines Regulatory Authorities.
Noting that unpatriotic businessmen and women engaged in the illicit manufacture, importation, and distribution of substandard and falsified medicines target medications with high volume of use for the treatment of diseases of public health interest, he stated that NAFDAC was maximising efforts to curb the menace in the state.
He challenged them to take up the cause of making sure that all pharmaceuticals are safe to use.”As we move forward with this workshop, let us keep in mind that the battle against counterfeit and subpar medications is one that cannot be fought on its own.
“It requires collaboration between government agencies, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and the public. Together, we can create a future where every medicine on the shelf is safe, genuine, and beneficial to the health of our communities,” he said.
The Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Kaduna, Mr. Sunday Ukoh, thanked NAFDAC for the timely sensitisation and emphasised that all parties involved needed to pitch in to take the necessary action.
Speaking at the same event as him was Abosede Garba, Vice Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists, who stated that the widespread use of counterfeit and subpar medications is a serious public health issue that impacts millions of people.
According to her, the fake goods put patients’ health at danger, damage the reputation of our healthcare system, and imperil the gains we have made in the fight against illness.
“It is with great honour that I stand before you today, representing the Association of Community Pharmacists, as we gather for this vital sensitization workshop organised by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
“The theme of this workshop—addressing the menace of substandard and falsified medicines—could not be more timely or relevant, especially in today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
“As frontline healthcare providers, we pharmacists bear a crucial responsibility in combating this challenge and ensuring that only safe, effective and high-quality medicines reach our communities. Community pharmacists, as trusted healthcare professionals, are uniquely positioned to be the first line of defence against counterfeit medicines.
“Our proximity to the community and our daily interactions with patients give us the opportunity to play a pivotal role in identifying, reporting and preventing the distribution of substandard products,” she stated.
She continued by saying that the workshop is an important step in providing them with the information and resources they need to enhance their position in the struggle.
She praised NAFDAC for their steadfast dedication to addressing the problem of subpar and counterfeit medications in order to safeguard public health.
“Your efforts in regulating, educating and raising awareness are invaluable in safeguarding the well-being of our citizens. We are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with you in this cause,” she said.
