Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced the destruction of more than 80 containers of counterfeit and substandard medicines and food products, as part of its ongoing nationwide enforcement campaign.
The announcement was made by Dr Martins Iluyomade, Director of Investigation and Enforcement and Chairman of the Federal Task Force at NAFDAC, during a press briefing held on Saturday in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital.
Dr Iluyomade revealed that the agency has been grappling with a persistent influx of fake and substandard products into Nigerian markets, particularly in densely populated commercial hubs such as Lagos. He described the situation as a moral crisis, stating that many individuals continue to profit from the illicit trade, despite its dangers to public health.
“Currently, we are destroying over 80 containers of fake and substandard products,” Iluyomade said. “The moral decadence in Nigeria is so much, and a lot of people benefit from this illicit trade. The rate is alarming.”
The press briefing also addressed a violent incident that occurred on Thursday, 30th October 2025, at the Trade Fair Market in Lagos, where NAFDAC officials were attacked during an enforcement operation. According to Dr Iluyomade, the assault resulted in the vandalisation of approximately 10 operational vehicles, collectively valued at over ₦25 billion. He described the attack as a serious threat to the agency’s enforcement efforts, noting that the risks faced by officials have escalated significantly.
Despite these challenges, NAFDAC remains committed to its mission of safeguarding public health by removing harmful products from circulation. The agency has pledged to intensify its market surveillance and enforcement activities, aiming to reduce the prevalence of counterfeit goods to the barest minimum.
Dr Iluyomade reiterated that the fight against fake drugs and food items is not only a regulatory responsibility but a moral imperative, calling on stakeholders and the public to support NAFDAC’s efforts in protecting consumers and restoring integrity to Nigeria’s supply chains.
