FG Supports Pharmacists in Combatting Fake Drugs

On Thursday, during a courtesy visit in Abuja, Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, tasked the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), led by National Chairman Pharm. Ambrose Igwekamma Ezeh, to enhance collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

Akume highlighted the urgent need to eliminate fake and substandard drugs from Nigeria’s pharmaceutical supply chain, describing community pharmacists as essential partners in the healthcare system. He stated that the proliferation of counterfeit medicines poses a significant threat to public health, necessitating a united effort among regulators, healthcare professionals, and the public.

Akume encouraged pharmacists to strengthen local manufacturing through international partnerships, referencing Uganda's progress in domestic drug production. He reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to healthcare reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, promising ongoing support for initiatives that promote pharmaceutical excellence and protect Nigerians from counterfeit drugs.