Director-general of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, has raised the alarm over the devastating effects of illicit drug combinations on Nigerian youths, calling for urgent national intervention.
This warning is coming on the heels of the BBC report on the use of Tafradol, a mix of Tapentadol and Carisoprodol by youths in the country.
At a media briefing yesterday in Lagos, Adeyeye revealed that the Indian government had officially banned Tafradol on February 21, regretting that despite the ban, the drug remains in circulation in Nigeria, wreaking havoc on communities.
“This substance is destroying lives. Young people use it and become completely unresponsive, almost as if hypnotised. They collapse anywhere – on the streets, in vehicles or even while using their mobile phones,” she stated.
The NAFDAC boss said, the agency has intensified efforts to curb the illegal drug trade, focusing on major hubs like Onitsha, Aba and Idumota. However, resistance from those benefiting from illicit pharmaceutical sales has hampered enforcement operations.
“We are not disrupting trade – we are protecting lives,” Adeyeye asserted. She recalled a raid three years ago in Onitsha Head Bridge area where large quantities of illicit drugs were hidden in plumbing shops. The resistance faced during that operation prompted NAFDAC to seek support from the Nation’s Security Architecture, leading to a large-scale crackdown involving over 1,000 security personnel.
Among the alarming discoveries were expired drugs repackaged with falsified expiration dates; counterfeit medications, including illegally imported Tramadol; essential medicines, such as vaccines, stored improperly, rendering them ineffective and USAID-donated antiretroviral drugs meant for free distribution found in illegal markets.
NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts have resulted in the closure of thousands of illegal drug shops – over 3,000 in Idumota and nearly 4,000 in Onitsha. However, the agency estimates that only 20 percent of the problem has been addressed.
Adeyeye highlighted the need for increased border security, additional personnel, and stronger public vigilance. She urged Nigerians to be cautious about where they purchase medications, warning that drugs bought from street vendors could be ineffective or even deadly.
“The crisis extends beyond enforcement – it is a societal issue. Many young people turn to drugs due to social pressures, unemployment or lack of parental guidance. We must all take responsibility to protect our future generations,” she said.
NAFDAC has vowed to continue its fight against illicit drugs in collaboration with security forces, emphasising that the battle is far from over. “This is not the end – this is only the beginning. Together, we must stay vigilant and work towards a safer Nigeria,” Adeyeye solicited.
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