NAFDAC Seeks Stronger Collaboration to Tackle Counterfeit Drugs in Yobe

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has called for stronger collaboration with security agencies, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders in Yobe State to curb the circulation of counterfeit drugs and adulterated food products.

North-East Zonal Director of NAFDAC, Chike Livinus, appealed on Monday during a visit to security agencies, traditional rulers, and government officials in Damaturu, describing Yobe as strategic because of its vast borders.

Livinus warned that counterfeit drugs in the supply chain posed grave public health and security risks, and commended the Nigeria Police Force for supporting the agency’s operations. He urged continued partnership in efforts to combat substandard products.

“The infiltration of counterfeit drugs in the supply chain poses public health dangers. We solicit stronger cooperation from security agencies to combat this menace,” Livinus said.

In response, the Commissioner of Police in Yobe, Emmanuel Ado, reaffirmed police support: “We have been working closely with NAFDAC and will continue to provide backup whenever required. The spread of substandard drugs is a serious societal threat.”

Secretary to the State Government, Baba Malam-Wali, said Yobe had provided office space and logistics to aid NAFDAC’s operations, while calling for federal support to expand its presence across the state.

Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu El-Kanemi, also pledged the backing of traditional rulers, urging closer engagement with communities given the region’s porous borders and insecurity.

The visit, according to NAFDAC, aimed to deepen partnerships that will safeguard public health and strengthen enforcement against counterfeit and substandard products in the state.

Punch