The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has vowed to make illicit trade unattractive to reduce counterfeit and unwholesome food items and drugs in the country.

This commitment was reaffirmed in a statement signed by NAFDAC director-general Mojisola Adeyeye on Tuesday.

The statement indicated that “the reaffirmation of the commitment is in response to the campaign of calumny against NAFDAC by fake drug manufacturers and sellers of substandard food and beverages.”

Ms Adeyeye, however, said, “NAFDAC is intensifying efforts to ensure the safety of drugs and foods consumed by Nigerians.”

According to her, the agency stands resolute against any campaign of calumny.

She added that the recent exposure of a cartel involved in the production of fake wines and soft drinks in Aba, Abia, underscored the gravity of the situation, clarifying that NAFDAC brought out the activities of these individuals during the yuletide to safeguard public health.

The NAFDAC boss highlighted the interception of counterfeit products in Eziukwu Market, Aba, as an example of NAFDAC’s commitment. She emphasised that unfounded allegations would not deter the agency, urging the public to be vigilant and report suspicious activities.

Ms Adeyeye disclosed that officers of the Investigation and Enforcement, Pharmacovigilance and Post Marketing Surveillance Directorates have been empowered to apprehend those involved in producing and distributing counterfeit drugs and substandard food items.

She reiterated the agency’s determination to safeguard the health of Nigerians and urged citizens to assist by providing useful information on counterfeiters’ activities.

The NAFDAC boss also called for the support of the 10th National Assembly and appealed for an expedited review of penalties against counterfeiting, emphasising that stiff penalties would discourage perpetrators from engaging in illicit trade.

She said NAFDAC, having achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification and World Health Organisation (WHO) Maturity Level 3, would continue to combat the scourge of substandard medicines.

She pledged that the agency would persist with sensitisation activities across the country in the New Year to ensure that Nigerians are aware of the threats posed by counterfeit products.

(NAN)