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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has seized counterfeit malaria drugs and cosmetic products valued at about ₦3 billion during a major enforcement operation in Lagos.
The seizure followed intelligence received earlier in February, which led officials to a three storey building at the Trade Fair Market. The structure was reportedly disguised as a spare parts warehouse but was used to store illegal pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.
Millions of Fake Medicines Recovered
NAFDAC officials confirmed that more than 10 million doses of fake drugs were recovered during the raid. The items included anti malarial medicines, cerebral malaria injections, antibiotics, postinor and anagin products. Some of the seized drugs had been banned in Nigeria for nearly 15 years.
Eight truckloads of counterfeit products were removed from the premises during the operation.
Arrests Made as Investigation Continues
The enforcement exercise also led to the arrest of four suspects. Investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for the production and distribution of the counterfeit items.
According to NAFDAC officials, the operation ranks among the agency’s most significant recent interventions against fake drugs.
Public Health Risks Highlighted
NAFDAC warned that if the seized products had entered the market, they could have endangered the lives of up to three million Nigerians. Counterfeit malaria drugs in particular pose serious risks, including treatment failure and drug resistance.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating fake and substandard products nationwide.
Advice to Distributors and the Public
NAFDAC urged drug distributors to source medicines only from accredited manufacturers and licensed suppliers. Members of the public were also encouraged to report suspicious drug related activities to the nearest NAFDAC office.
The agency said continued collaboration with stakeholders is critical to protecting public health and strengthening drug safety in Nigeria.
