The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) says it generated N2.5 billion in fines from a recent nationwide raid targeting major open drug markets in Lagos, Onitsha, and Aba.
The agency's Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed this while appearing before the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drug Administration and Control.
She explained that the funds were collected as penalties from traders found guilty of selling fake, substandard, or unregistered drugs during enforcement operations at the popular Idumota market in Lagos, Main Market in Onitsha, and the Ariaria market in Aba.
According to Adeyeye, the entire amount was paid directly into NAFDAC’s official account. Of the total, N996 million was spent on the enforcement activities, while N159 million was sourced from donor grants. An additional N1.175 billion covered regulatory expenses, leaving the agency with a balance of about N206 million.
The DG revealed that over 1,300 security operatives were deployed in the operations, which lasted up to four weeks in some locations. She said the raids uncovered widespread violations, including the sale of expired drugs, banned substances such as Tramadol, and poor storage conditions.
Adeyeye warned that the findings posed serious risks to public health and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to sanitising drug distribution channels across the country.
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