NAFDAC Strengthens Ties with Yobe Stakeholders to Tackle Counterfeit Drugs

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is intensifying efforts to combat the spread of counterfeit drugs and adulterated food products in Yobe State through stronger collaboration with security agencies, traditional leaders, and other key stakeholders.

During a recent courtesy visit to Damaturu, NAFDAC’s North-East Zonal Director, Mr. Chike Livinus, emphasized the strategic importance of Yobe due to its vast and porous borders, which have made the state vulnerable to the infiltration of fake pharmaceuticals and unwholesome consumables.

“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.

He acknowledged the critical role played by the Nigeria Police Force and praised its ongoing support for NAFDAC operations, urging continued collaboration to ensure the safety and quality of regulated products.

Yobe State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Emmanuel Ado, reaffirmed the force’s commitment to supporting NAFDAC’s regulatory duties across the state.
“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,” he stated.

Secretary to the State Government, Baba Malam-Wali, commended NAFDAC for recent seizures of adulterated products in local markets. He noted that the state government had provided office space and logistics to support the agency’s operations and called for increased federal support to establish more offices and recruit local personnel.

Traditional institutions also pledged their support. The Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu El-Kanemi, lauded NAFDAC’s commitment to protecting public health and encouraged deeper engagement with community leaders for grassroots awareness and enforcement.

He further urged the agency to prioritise the North-East in its regulatory planning, citing persistent challenges such as insecurity and border vulnerabilities.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the visit by the NAFDAC zonal director aimed to solidify partnerships and enhance enforcement measures across Yobe State in a bid to safeguard public health and secure the supply chain.