The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced the destruction of seized products worth over ₦120 billion across the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory.
This exercise, conducted between July and December 2024, forms part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to ensure consumer safety and maintain public health standards in Nigeria.
The disclosure was made in a yuletide message from NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, and contained in a statement signed by the agency’s Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, on Sunday.
Prof. Adeyeye used the occasion to reassure Nigerians that the agency has implemented robust measures to safeguard their health during the festive season.
She emphasized the critical importance of food safety during the yuletide period, urging Nigerians to prioritize health-conscious decisions when purchasing consumables.
“We are committed to ensuring that Nigerians can celebrate the yuletide season without compromising their health.
We have put in place mechanisms to protect public health before, during, and after the festive period,” she stated.
The Director-General highlighted the dangers of consuming unverified products and advised Nigerians to purchase food and drinks only from outlets with identifiable addresses. This practice, she noted, facilitates NAFDAC’s tracking processes and enhances consumer safety.
“Consumers should be vigilant and avoid medicines and packaged food products that lack NAFDAC registration numbers.
Products that are unusually cheap are likely to be compromised and may pose serious health risks,” Prof. Adeyeye cautioned.
She further emphasized the importance of consumer awareness, encouraging Nigerians to report suspicious products or outlets to the agency for swift action.
NAFDAC’s efforts to destroy unwholesome products are part of its broader mandate to rid the Nigerian market of counterfeit and substandard goods.
The ₦120 billion worth of destroyed products underscores the agency’s resolve to safeguard public health and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
The agency’s proactive measures come as Nigerians prepare for the festive season, a time marked by increased consumption of food and beverages.
NAFDAC has reiterated its commitment to protecting the public from the dangers of unsafe products and maintaining consumer confidence in the Nigerian market.
As part of its yuletide message, NAFDAC encouraged all Nigerians to join the fight against counterfeit products by being vigilant and reporting any suspicious activities.
The agency assured the public of its unwavering dedication to ensuring the health and safety of all citizens, especially during the festive season.