The Nigerian government has launched a Federal Task Force to combat counterfeit medicines and unsafe processed foods, aiming to protect public health and restore trust in the nation’s food and drug supply chain.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) announced the initiative on Friday, stating that the task force was inaugurated by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
Empowered under Cap C34 laws, the task force will coordinate a multi-agency approach to safeguarding the healthcare system’s integrity. NAFDAC highlighted recent enforcement operations as proof of its resolve.
Between February and March 2025, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and 1,350 security personnel, the agency carried out large-scale raids in major drug markets at Idumota, Onitsha, and Aba. These operations resulted in the seizure and destruction of over 137 truckloads of counterfeit and substandard products valued at more than ₦1 trillion, alongside several arrests.
“This renewed enforcement drive sends a clear message: Nigeria will not tolerate the circulation of harmful products,” NAFDAC stated, urging government bodies, industry players, partners, and the public to join forces in keeping markets safe.
Nigeria has long battled the menace of fake medicines and unsafe foods, which have caused thousands of deaths, treatment failures, and widespread foodborne illnesses. The World Health Organisation notes that substandard medical products are most prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, with Africa bearing a significant share of the burden.
While NAFDAC, established in 1993, has led numerous crackdowns, weak enforcement, porous borders, and the scale of illicit trade have hindered lasting success. The formation of the Federal Task Force marks the latest step in the government’s efforts to tighten regulatory oversight and bring offenders to justice.
Past high-profile interventions, such as the 2019 closure of the Onitsha open drug market, were considered major victories, but experts insist sustained political will and active public participation remain key to ending the problem.
