NAFDAC Discovers Expired Condoms And Counterfeit Drugs In Lagos Market

Shocking Discovery at Idumota Open Drug Market

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has made alarming discoveries during an ongoing enforcement operation at the Idumota open drug market in Lagos.

According to a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, the agency seized large quantities of unregistered narcotics, counterfeit GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) medications, and vaccines that were stored under unsanitary conditions, with some even found hidden in toilets.

Details of the Raid

The agency revealed that its enforcement team intercepted a variety of substandard pharmaceutical products, including:

Expired condoms that were repackaged for sale.
Fake GSK medicines and vaccines that had been tampered with and stored in unhygienic locations.
Unregistered narcotic substances smuggled into the market.

NAFDAC officials emphasized that such illegal practices endanger public health by exposing consumers to unsafe medications and ineffective contraceptives.

Public Health Concerns and Regulatory Actions

The sale of counterfeit drugs and expired health products poses significant risks, including treatment failures, drug resistance, and potential fatalities. NAFDAC has assured the public that it will continue its nationwide crackdown on illicit drug markets to prevent the circulation of dangerous products.

NAFDAC also urged Nigerians to purchase medicines only from licensed pharmacies and to verify product authenticity through its official verification channels. Consumers are encouraged to report suspicious pharmaceutical activities via the agency’s official website.

Related Concerns in the Pharmaceutical Industry

The issue of counterfeit medications is a global problem. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 1 in 10 medical products in low- and middle-income countries is either substandard or falsified.

To learn more about drug safety and how to identify counterfeit medicines, visit WHO’s official page on counterfeit drugs.

Conclusion

NAFDAC’s efforts to rid Nigeria’s markets of dangerous pharmaceuticals remain a priority. This recent crackdown in Lagos underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and consumer vigilance. As the agency continues its enforcement operations, Nigerians are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize their health by purchasing only from verified sources.