The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians about the dangers of consuming counterfeit and adulterated beverages, food products, and medicines.
This announcement comes as part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to protect public health and ensure the safety of consumable goods.
In a statement released on December 8, 2024, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director General of NAFDAC, emphasized the significant health risks posed by these fake products, especially during the festive season.
Prof. Adeyeye advised Nigerians to be vigilant and avoid purchasing drinks, food, and medicines from roadside vendors or unregistered stores.
She highlighted that many of these products lack proper storage conditions and are often counterfeit, posing serious health hazards.
“Do not buy medicines in the corner store or just somebody that has a kiosk or hawks around.
“Go to a pharmacy store to buy medicine. It could be costly, but please bear in mind that we are in this economic storm because many people do not have the money.
“Do not buy it because it is cheap as it can cause harm, affect health, or cause death.”
This warning comes at a crucial time as the festive season approaches, a period when the proliferation of fake and adulterated products tends to increase.
Prof. Adeyeye urged the public to look out for NAFDAC’s registration number and expiry date on product labels before making any purchases.
To combat this menace, NAFDAC has intensified its monitoring and enforcement activities. The agency has partnered with law enforcement agencies to crack down on the production and distribution of fake products.
Additionally, NAFDAC has launched public awareness campaigns to educate Nigerians on how to identify genuine products and report suspicious items.
The agency continues to work tirelessly to clamp down on illegal activities and promote awareness about the dangers of fake products.
And as consumers, it is essential to heed these warnings and make informed choices to protect our health and safety.
By supporting legitimate businesses and being cautious about where we buy our products, we can contribute to a safer and healthier society.
