posted 27th May 2025
NAFDAC Defends Enforcement Actions in Onitsha, Reaffirms Commitment to Public Safety Amid Criticism Over Fines
Lagos, 27 May 2025 – The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has responded to recent criticisms regarding the substantial fines imposed on traders during a nationwide enforcement operation, defending its actions as necessary to protect public health. The statement comes after the agency uncovered widespread distribution of substandard and unregistered medicines in Onitsha, Anambra State, and other key markets.
Between 9 February and 27 March 2025, NAFDAC targeted three major drug markets—Idumota in Lagos, Ariaria in Aba, and Onitsha’s Bridge Head Market. The operation exposed falsified, expired, and substandard medicines and controlled substances valued at over one trillion Naira. Many of these products were found in warehouses, shops, and distribution outlets that failed to comply with Good Storage and Distribution Practices (GSDP) standards and were not registered with the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), breaching national regulations.
Facing backlash over the fines, NAFDAC clarified that the penalties were applied fairly and were later reduced following appeals. An initial ₦5,000,000 fine for selling unregistered products was lowered to ₦200,000, while a ₦2,000,000 investigative charge for GSDP violations was reduced to ₦500,000. The agency stressed that these measures were essential to deter violations that endanger public health.
In a press release, NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, PhD, FAS, addressed the criticism, stating, “NAFDAC remains steadfast in its mandate to ensure that all medical products, drugs, vaccines, medical devices, and other circulating items in Nigeria are safe, effective, and of good quality. By enforcing compliance with regulations, the Agency aims to protect the most vulnerable, including pregnant women, children, and individuals with chronic conditions.”
The agency also issued a warning to social media influencers against promoting unverified medical products, noting that such actions could violate the Cybercrime Act. Prof. Adeyeye reiterated NAFDAC’s commitment to its regulatory role, adding, “We will not be deterred by attempts to derail critical reforms. NAFDAC assures the public that it will continue to operate within the bounds of its mandate to safeguard public health.”
