KANO, Nigeria — The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted over 580,000 unregistered pharmaceutical products at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, handing them over to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for further action to protect public health.
The seizure, which was announced on Thursday, involved a large consignment of unregistered medicines believed to have been smuggled into the country through the airport. Customs officials discovered the products during routine inspection of cargo at the airport’s cargo terminal.
According to Customs authorities, the unregistered medicines pose a significant risk to public health, as they have not been subjected to the rigorous quality and safety checks required by NAFDAC. The agency has warned that the consumption of unregistered and counterfeit medicines can lead to serious health complications, including treatment failure, adverse reactions, and even death.
The Customs Area Controller at the airport, who confirmed the seizure, stated that the command remains vigilant in its efforts to prevent the illegal importation of unregistered pharmaceutical products and other contraband. He noted that the interception is part of ongoing efforts to protect public health and ensure that only regulated medicines enter the country.
NAFDAC, which has received the seized products, has commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance and cooperation. The agency has assured the public that it will conduct a thorough investigation into the source of the unregistered medicines and take appropriate action against those responsible.
The seizure is the latest in a series of interceptions of unregistered and counterfeit medicines by security agencies in Nigeria. The federal government has intensified efforts to combat the proliferation of fake and substandard drugs in the country, which has been identified as a major public health concern.
As the investigation continues, the public has been urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities related to the sale and distribution of unregistered medicines to the relevant authorities. For now, the Customs Service and NAFDAC have reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that only safe and regulated medicines are available in Nigeria.
