The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Borno has conducted mop-up operations to confiscate drugs and food products contaminated by recent flood in the state
The successful mop-up operation was conducted across several key markets in Maiduguri and its environs to remove
”drugs and food items contaminated by recent floodwaters to prevent their re-introduction into sales,” Mr. Kenneth Azikiwe Director NAFDAC North-East, stated,
Azikiwe said that the operation, which was directed by the Director – General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, was part of the organisation’s market control strategy to prevent possible outbreak of diseases.
A statement by Sayo Akintola, NAFDAC Resident Media Consultant said the
mop-up operation took place at the following locations:Gamboru Drug and Food Market , Monday Market Open Air-Theatre Drug Market and Gwange Drug Market, Azikiwe state.
“The recent floods have posed a significant risk to public health by contaminating food and drug supplies.
“Our swift action in these markets is crucial to ensure that only safe and uncontaminated products are available to the public.
”During the operation, directed by the Director General Prof (Mrs.) Christianah Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC officials drawn from Borno, Yobe, Gombe and the NAFDAC area laboratory meticulously inspected and removed all compromised items (food and drugs) valued at over 5 billion naira.
“The Agency also provided guidelines to market vendors and the public on how to identify and handle potentially contaminated products in the future, he said.
”Furthermore, all manufacturing facilities engaged in the production of regulated products located within the flood affected areas have been closed down to allow for GMP reassessment before production will begin again,” the statement stated.
He assured that NAFDAC would continue with the surveillance and monitoring to cover all parts of Maiduguri metropolis not covered in this operation.
NAFDAC, Azikiwe said, remained committed to safeguarding the health of Nigerians by ensuring that all food and drug products meet the highest standards of safety and quality.
”Through rigorous inspections, testing, and public education, NAFDAC works to protect the health and well-being of all Nigerians,” the Zonal Director stated.
The agency urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or compromised products to the nearest NAFDAC office. (vitalnewsngr.com)
.
