The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control on Wednesday destroyed various categories of harmful products worth N10 billion in Gombe State.

The agency’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, said during the event that the items were seized from the six states in the North-East region, namely Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Taraba, Gombe and Yobe.

Represented by the Zonal Director of NAFDAC, Kenneth Azukwe, the NAFDAC DG said that the products included food items, drugs and other regulated items.

She added that the goods were seized through diligent efforts of regulatory and enforcement officers in the zone, who worked tirelessly to intercept and confiscate the dangerous items.

She noted, “NAFDAC stands at the forefront of ensuring that only quality, safe food items, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals and packaged water are sold and consumed in Nigeria. With steadfast commitment to protecting and promoting public health, NAFDAC has implemented rigorous standards and innovative practices that set a benchmark not only in Nigeria but also on the global stage. Our agency’s dedication to excellence is reflected in its comprehensive regulatory framework, designed to safeguard the health of millions. As we proceed with this destruction exercise, let it serve as a clear message to unscrupulous individuals and entities that NAFDAC will not relent in its efforts to protect the health of Nigerians.”

She explained that the agency would continue to strengthen regulatory frameworks, enhance surveillance and ensure that violators are brought to justice.

She stated, “Through meticulous inspection, cutting-edge technology, laboratory analyses and robust enforcement, NAFDAC ensures that only the highest quality products reach the market.’’

According to her, the unwavering vigilance has earned NAFDAC international recognition and collaboration with leading health organisations worldwide.

She noted that NAFDAC embraced advanced technologies and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

She said, “NAFDAC remains agile and responsive to emerging challenges in the dynamic landscape of public health. Today’s exercise is a testament of our commitment to rid markets of substandard, falsified and unwholesome products that pose serious risks to public health. These products, if allowed to circulate, can cause untold harm to countless individuals. By removing them from circulation, we are taking a decisive stand against those who seek to profit at the expense of public safety.”

NAFDAC’s Coordinator in Gombe, James Agada, said some expired products were voluntarily handed over to the agency, reiterating NAFDAC’s resolve to
safeguard the lives of the masses.

On his part, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Habu Dahiru, commended the agency for the good job, which he said contributed to reducing the spread of diseases.

(NAN)