UPDATES: FAKE DRUGS ARE SILENT KILLERS — SENATOR NATASHA

FAKE DRUGS ARE SILENT KILLERS — SENATOR NATASHA COMMENDS NAFDAC’S CRACKDOWN ON COUNTERFEIT MEDICINES


The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has commended the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for intensifying efforts to combat the circulation of counterfeit and substandard medicines across Nigeria.

The lawmaker described fake drugs as a “silent killer” responsible for countless avoidable deaths and the gradual erosion of public confidence in the nation’s healthcare system.

She made the remarks during the 2026 budget defence session for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) under the Senate Committee on Health, where lawmakers assessed budgetary allocations, implementation performance, and sectoral priorities within the health system.

In recent months, NAFDAC has stepped up nationwide enforcement operations targeting open drug markets, pharmacies, warehouses, and points of entry into the country. These actions have led to the interception and seizure of large consignments of counterfeit and substandard medicines deemed dangerous to public health.

Speaking at the session, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan praised the leadership of NAFDAC, particularly its Director-General, for what she described as exceptional diligence and resolve in confronting the long-standing menace of fake drugs.

She noted that the interception of counterfeit medicines goes beyond regulatory enforcement, describing it as a lifesaving intervention that restores confidence in Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system.

According to the senator, the widespread availability of fake and substandard drugs continues to contribute to treatment failures, preventable deaths, and a growing distrust of medical institutions.

“Fake drugs kill silently and erode trust in our health institutions. NAFDAC’s actions are restoring that trust and sending a clear message that Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for counterfeiters,” she said.

The lawmaker also called for sustained legislative backing and adequate funding for the agency, stressing the need for stronger surveillance mechanisms, modern laboratory facilities, and tighter enforcement at borders and local markets.

She emphasized that supporting NAFDAC through policy and budgetary measures is essential to safeguarding public health, safety, and national dignity.

The Senate Committee on Health reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oversight of health-related MDAs and ensuring they are properly resourced to effectively discharge their mandates, particularly in the ongoing fight against fake and substandard medical products.

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