The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has intercepted 277 cartons of counterfeit antimalarial drugs valued at an estimated ₦1.2 billion.
The illicit shipment, disguised as spare parts, was tracked from Apapa Port to a warehouse in Ilasa, Lagos, where officials discovered the drugs concealed among bicycles, tyres, and other goods.
The product, branded Malama Forte and falsely labeled as Diclofenac Potassium, was meant to contain Arthemeter/Lumefantrine 80/480mg. Each carton held 18 packs, amounting to nearly 500,000 doses.
NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Martins Iluyomade, said the interception was the result of an intelligence-driven operation by the agency’s Pharmaceutical Division. He noted that laboratory analysis is underway to confirm the actual composition of the drugs.
“This consignment alone could have endangered countless lives. We are determined to fight this battle to the end,” Iluyomade said, warning that fake malaria drugs remain a leading cause of preventable deaths in Nigeria.
One suspect, identified as Paul Uche, was arrested, while the principal importer has been traced to China.
Iluyomade emphasized that the seizure is part of government efforts to crack down on counterfeit medicines and assured that all those responsible will be brought to justice.
