The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed its strong support for the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in its ongoing crackdown on fake drug dealers nationwide.
According to PUNCH Healthwise, NAFDAC has shut down over 11,000 shops and arrested more than 40 suspects during its extensive raids targeting counterfeit drug dealers. Additionally, billions of naira worth of fake drugs have been destroyed.
In a statement issued on Thursday, NANS National Public Relations Officer, Samson Adeyemi, emphasized that the proliferation of fake drugs in Nigerian markets poses a serious threat to students’ health and well-being. He further highlighted that the consumption of counterfeit drugs can have a long-lasting negative impact on the youth, which could jeopardize the country’s future.
“NANS wholeheartedly commends NAFDAC’s relentless efforts to combat the spread of counterfeit and illegal drugs across Nigerian markets. This crucial initiative aligns with our shared vision to protect the health and well-being of all Nigerians, especially our student community” Adeyemi stated.
Fake drugs pose a severe threat to the safety and future of students. They often contain harmful substances that can lead to serious health complications, endangering the lives of young Nigerians who are vital to our nation’s future.
NAFDAC’s decisive actions against these criminal activities are pivotal in ensuring that only safe and legitimate medications are available to the public.
Adeyemi also urged the public, including government agencies, to continue supporting NAFDAC in its efforts to eliminate fake drugs. He further called on students across the country to report any suspicious activities related to the sale and distribution of counterfeit drugs.
By supporting NAFDAC’s initiatives, we take a stand against the exploitation of innocent individuals by unscrupulous drug dealers prioritizing profit over lives.
We urge all Nigerian students to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving fake drugs. Together, we can create a safer, healthier environment for ourselves and future generations.
We also call on the government and relevant stakeholders to provide the necessary resources to NAFDAC as it continues its critical work to protect public health. The fight against counterfeit drugs requires the active involvement of all sectors of society.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, NAFDAC warned producers of adulterated beverages, promising tough measures after arresting Anthony Chidi, a 52-year-old man, who was caught washing used bottles of various alcoholic beverage brands at the Mile 3 Market in the Diobu area of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Cyril Monye, NAFDAC’s Public Relations Officer for the South-South Zone, confirmed the arrest and reiterated the agency’s commitment to tackling illegal beverage production.
