The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has carried out an extensive clean-up operation across various markets in Maiduguri, Borno State, following recent flooding that compromised drugs and food supplies.
According to a statement released by NAFDAC’s Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, on Tuesday, the operation covered major markets such as the Gamboru drug and food market, Monday market, Open Air-Theatre drug market, and the Gwange drug market. This initiative was part of the agency’s efforts to prevent the sale of flood-damaged products and mitigate potential public health risks.
After the Gomboru drug market was submerged by floodwaters, contaminated drugs were reportedly washed and sun-dried for resale. In response, NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, ordered the immediate closure of the market and a shop-by-shop inspection to remove compromised items.
Kenneth Azikiwe, NAFDAC’s Director for the North-East region, emphasized the public health risks posed by the floods, stating, “Our prompt intervention in these markets is vital to ensure that only safe and uncontaminated products reach the public.”
The agency confirmed that the value of the seized drugs and food items exceeded N5bn. The operation involved NAFDAC officials from Borno, Yobe, Gombe, and the agency’s area laboratory, who carefully inspected and removed all compromised goods.
Additionally, all manufacturing facilities producing regulated products in flood-affected areas have been temporarily shut down to allow for reassessment of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) before resuming operations.
NAFDAC reassured the public of its ongoing surveillance and monitoring efforts across Maiduguri and stressed its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of all food and drug products in Nigeria. The agency urged the public to remain alert and report any suspicious or compromised products to the nearest NAFDAC office.
