Just In – NAFDAC Raids Illicit Drug Markets in Lagos Onitsha and Aba Seizing Products Worth N2.5 Billion

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has revealed the outcome of a coordinated raid on illicit drug markets in three major Nigerian cities—Lagos, Onitsha, and Aba. According to the agency, the operation led to the seizure of counterfeit, unregistered, and illegal drugs estimated to be worth about N2.5 billion.

The agency disclosed this in a statement shared with the media, explaining that the crackdown was part of its intensified efforts to rid Nigerian markets of harmful pharmaceuticals that pose serious health risks to citizens. The operation involved intelligence gathering, surveillance, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

NAFDAC Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, noted that the raid was carried out simultaneously in the three locations to prevent suspects from escaping or relocating illegal goods. She added that several shops were sealed, arrests were made, and large volumes of fake drugs including antibiotics, painkillers, and controlled substances were confiscated.

 The agency emphasized that the presence of these illicit drugs in open markets contributes to rising cases of drug abuse, resistance to treatment, and public health crises. NAFDAC stated that many of the drugs found during the operation were smuggled into the country without approval or registration, making them unsafe for consumption.

In addition to counterfeit drugs, the raid uncovered illegal production facilities operating without licenses. Equipment and packaging materials used to mimic original drug brands were also seized. According to NAFDAC, these facilities were run by individuals who had no pharmaceutical training or background, further endangering public health.

NAFDAC has pledged to continue its enforcement operations in other parts of the country. The agency also issued a warning to drug dealers and importers who engage in the sale of unapproved medicines, stating that legal action will be taken against any individual or company found culpable.

Nigerians have reacted positively to the development, with many social media users praising NAFDAC for taking decisive action against the threat of fake drugs. Public health advocates have also called for regular follow-ups and stricter regulations to prevent these markets from resurfacing.

The agency urged citizens to report suspicious drug activities in their communities and to purchase medicines only from registered pharmacies. As NAFDAC intensifies its fight against counterfeit drugs, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of all Nigerians.