NAFDAC Destroys N59m Expired Medicines in Rivers State

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) destroyed expired donated drugs valued at N59 million on Monday at the Igwuruta dump site in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State. The expired medicines, which included antidepressants, anti-ulcers, analgesics, and hypertension drugs, were shipped from the United States and intercepted by NAFDAC personnel in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service at the Nigeria Ports Authority, Area 1 Port in Port Harcourt.

Chukwuma Oligbu, NAFDAC Director for the South-South zone, stated that the destruction of these drugs reflects the agency's commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that medicines meet required standards of quality, safety, and effectiveness. Oligbu highlighted the risks posed by expired medicines and assured that NAFDAC would continue to strengthen its regulatory presence through inspection and public engagement.

He also acknowledged the collaboration of various stakeholders in the exercise.