National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned that there are substandard and falsified antimalarials, antibiotics, antihypertensives, anti-diabetic agents and lifestyle drugs in circulation.
The agency stated this during a community sensitization workshop for stakeholders on standard and falsified medicines in Nigeria, held in Kaduna yesterday.
Speaking during the workshop, Director North West Zone of the Agency, Bala Mshelia, said the workshop was meant to sensitise stakeholders on substandard and falsified medicines which have become a global problem presenting enormous public health challenges to National Medicines Regulatory Authorities.
He said NAFDAC was maximising efforts to curb the menace in the state, noting that unpatriotic business men/women involved in the illegal manufacture, importation and distribution of substandard and falsified medicines target medicines with high volume of use for the treatment of diseases of public health interest.
He urged them to join in the fight to ensure that all drugs are safe for usage. “As we proceed with this workshop, let us remember that the fight against substandard and falsified medicines is not one that can be won in isolation.
“It requires collaboration between government agencies, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and the public. Together, we can create a future where every medicine on the shelf is safe, genuine, and beneficial to the health of our communities”, he said.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Kaduna, Mr Sunday Ukoh, appreciated NAFDAC for the timely sensitization, adding that all stakeholders’ hands must be on deck to do the needful.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists, Abosede Garba, said the prevalence of substandard and falsified medicines is not just a challenge for healthcare professionals but a grave public health concern that affects the lives of millions.
She said the counterfeit products jeopardise the health of patients, undermining the credibility of our healthcare system, and threaten the progress we have made in fighting diseases.
“It is with great honour that I stand before you today, representing the Association of Community Pharmacists, as we gather for this vital sensitization workshop organised by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
“The theme of this workshop—addressing the menace of substandard and falsified medicines—could not be more timely or relevant, especially in today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
“As frontline healthcare providers, we pharmacists bear a crucial responsibility in combating this challenge and ensuring that only safe, effective and high-quality medicines reach our communities. Community pharmacists, as trusted healthcare professionals, are uniquely positioned to be the first line of defence against counterfeit medicines.
“Our proximity to the community and our daily interactions with patients give us the opportunity to play a pivotal role in identifying, reporting and preventing the distribution of substandard products”.
She added that the workshop is a significant step towards empowering them with the knowledge and tools needed to further strengthen their role in the fight.
She commended NAFDAC for their unwavering commitment to protecting public health by tackling the issue of substandard and falsified medicines.
“Your efforts in regulating, educating and raising awareness are invaluable in safeguarding the well-being of our citizens. We are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with you in this cause”, she said.
