The Federal Government has inaugurated a special task force to intensify the fight against counterfeit medicines and unwholesome processed foods across Nigeria.
The inauguration of the Federal and Regional Task Force (FTF), led by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, held recently, in Abuja.
According to Prof. Pate through a statement, the FTF will operate under the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The initiative aims to combat manufacturing, distribution of fake drugs and unwholesome processed foods across the country.
He stressed that the move reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring all regulated products including medicines, foods, cosmetics, and medical devices meet strict national safety and quality standards.
The task force’s creation aligns with Pillar 4: Health Security of the Ministry’s 4-Point Agenda, which focuses on safeguarding Nigerians from health threats such as unsafe products, infectious diseases, and systemic weaknesses.
Prof. Pate stated that “Counterfeit medicines and unsafe foods are not just crimes; they are threats to life,” and “With this task force, we are sending a clear message: Nigeria will no longer be a haven for those who profit at the expense of public health.”
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare called on manufacturers, distributors, healthcare professionals, and consumers to work together in the fight against substandard and falsified products.
