Akpoti-Uduaghan praises NAFDAC crackdown on fake drugs, urges Senate support and funding to curb counterfeit medicines nationwide

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has commended the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control for intensifying its enforcement operations against counterfeit and substandard medicines across Nigeria.

Also read: NAFDAC warns Nigerians against recruitment scam

Akpoti-Uduaghan made the remarks during the 2026 budget defence session of health-related Ministries, Departments and Agencies before the Senate Committee on Health, where lawmakers reviewed allocations, performance records, and sector priorities.

The senator described counterfeit medicines as a silent killer responsible for avoidable deaths and declining public confidence in the healthcare system.

She praised the Director-General of NAFDAC for what she called “exceptional diligence and courage” in tackling the long-standing challenge.

“The interception of these counterfeit products is not just an enforcement success; it is a lifesaving intervention that reinforces public confidence in our healthcare system,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said.

NAFDAC has in recent months stepped up inspections and seizures at open drug markets, pharmacies, and entry points, intercepting large consignments of medicines considered harmful to public health.

Akpoti-Uduaghan urged sustained legislative backing and improved budgetary support to strengthen the agency’s surveillance capacity, laboratory infrastructure, and border enforcement.

She stressed that empowering NAFDAC was central to protecting Nigerians’ health and restoring trust in medical institutions.

Also read: NAFDAC defends alcohol sachet ban over child health risks

The Senate Committee on Health reaffirmed its commitment to robust oversight of health agencies and ensuring they are adequately resourced to fulfil their mandates, particularly in the fight against counterfeit medical products.