NAFDAC Launches 600-Pharmacist Reserve to Combat Fake Drugs

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is launching a 600-member national reserve of pharmacists through its Pharmacists Reserve Volunteer Programme (PRVP) to combat fake drugs and public health emergencies in Nigeria. Sayo Akintola, NAFDAC’s Resident Media Consultant, announced this initiative, which includes qualified pharmacists from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, representing the six geopolitical zones.

The programme aims to create a pool of trained and vetted pharmacists to assist during product recalls and emergencies in remote areas. NAFDAC's Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, inaugurated the programme, emphasizing the need for regulation to reach all Nigerians.

Volunteers will receive training in various areas, including pharmacovigilance and compliance monitoring. Adeyeye urged the pharmacists to maintain integrity and confidentiality, warning against external pressures that could compromise their duties.

The long-term goal is to establish a standing pool of trained pharmacists in every state to enhance NAFDAC's regulatory presence.