NAFDAC seizes N5bln flood-damaged drugs in Borno

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has carried out a thorough mop-up operation across multiple markets in Maiduguri, Borno State, confiscating flood-damaged drugs and products worth N5 billion.

The mop-up operation targeted flood-contaminated drugs and food items, aiming to prevent their re-circulation in markets and minimize the risk of disease outbreaks, ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers.

A press statement signed by the agency’s Resident Media Consultant, Mr. Sayo Akintola, on Tuesday noted that the mop-up operation took place at the Gamboru drug and food market, the Monday market, the open-air theatre drug market, and the Gwange drug market.

The statement read: “During the operation, directed by the Director General, NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, officials drawn from Borno, Yobe, and Gombe, and the NAFDAC area laboratory meticulously inspected and removed all compromised items (food and drugs) valued at over N5bn.

“The agency also provided guidelines to market vendors and the public on how to identify and handle potentially contaminated products in the future.

“Furthermore, all manufacturing facilities engaged in the production of regulated products located within the flood-affected areas have been closed down to allow for Good Manufacturing Practices reassessment before production will begin again.

“NAFDAC will continue with the surveillance and monitoring to cover all parts of Maiduguri metropolis not covered in this operation.

“NAFDAC remains committed to safeguarding the health of Nigerians by ensuring that all food and drug products meet the highest standards of safety and quality.

“Through rigorous inspections, testing, and public education, NAFDAC works to protect the health and well-being of all Nigerians.

“The Agency urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or compromised products to the nearest NAFDAC office.”

Persecondnews recalls that Adeyeye swiftly ordered the Gomboru drug market closure to facilitate a thorough, shop-to-shop removal of compromised drugs that were contaminated, washed, and sun-dried for resale, posing a significant health risk to consumers.

Also, the Director, NAFDAC in the North-East, Mr. Kenneth Azikiwe, said: “The recent floods have posed a significant risk to public health by contaminating food and drug supplies.

“Our swift action in these markets is crucial to ensure that only safe and uncontaminated products are available to the public.”