•Vows to make illicit trade unattractive
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control,NAFDAC, yesterday appealed to the National Assembly to expedite the review of penalties against counterfeiting.
It also vowed to reduce fake drugs and make illicit trade unattractive in the country.
The Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Christianah Adeyeye, who made the appeal in a statement yesterday, argued that stiff penalties without an option of fine would discourage perpetrators from engaging in such illicit trades.
She said NAFDAC, having achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification and World Health Organization, WHO, Maturity Level 3, would continue in its efforts to combat the scourge of substandard medicines.
Adeyeye, despite the numerous life-threatening encounters and attacks on NAFDAC officers, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to eradicating the menace of counterfeit drugs and unwholesome products from the Nigerian market.
On recent negative press concerning the activities of fake drug manufacturers and sellers of substandard food and beverages, the NAFDAC boss said the agency was intensifying efforts to ensure the safety of drugs and food consumed by Nigerians.
”The agency stands resolute against a campaign of calumny launched by those who seek to profit at the expense of the well-being of fellow citizens.
”The recent exposure of a cartel involved in the production of fake wines and soft drinks in Aba, Abia State, underscores the gravity of the situation,” she said.
Adeyeye said NAFDAC brought the activities of these nefarious individuals to public attention to safeguard citizens during the Yuletide festivities, cautioning against consuming potentially harmful substances disguised as cheap wines and soft drinks.
She emphasised that the agency would not be deterred by unfounded allegations, and urged the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
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