The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced that the Onitsha Drug Market and other affected markets will reopen on Friday. The decision comes nearly a month after they were shut down due to the discovery of counterfeit and substandard drugs.
NAFDAC’s South-East Zonal Director, Martins Iluyomade, confirmed the reopening on Thursday after a meeting with Anambra State government officials and market union representatives. The closure, which affected not just the drug market but also the plumbing materials market, timber market, surgical materials market, and science laboratory materials market, was part of efforts to clean up the distribution of fake drugs.
Iluyomade explained that the agency’s actions were necessary because large quantities of counterfeit drugs were found in multiple markets, not just the drug section. He noted that in past enforcement operations, officials had faced hostility, including an incident where a NAFDAC officer was assaulted. The agency had to shut down all affected markets to prevent further issues and ensure a thorough investigation.
He acknowledged the support of Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, who initially expressed concern about the market closure but later backed NAFDAC’s efforts after understanding the situation. Iluyomade also commended NAFDAC’s Director General for her commitment to tackling fake drugs.
During the raid, NAFDAC confiscated over 50 trailers of counterfeit and substandard drugs. Some of these were stored in warehouses outside the market, and the agency is still tracking more illegal stock. Iluyomade warned that the circulation of illicit drugs is linked to security challenges in the country, as such substances fuel criminal activities.
He also pointed out poor drug storage practices, noting that even genuine medicines were kept in unsuitable conditions. Some drugs that require cold storage were found in overheated warehouses, making them ineffective and dangerous for consumers.
While the market is set to reopen, about 4,000 shops will remain closed until their owners explain the presence of illegal drugs in their stores. Market union leaders have welcomed the decision and promised to cooperate with NAFDAC to prevent future issues.
Iluyomade cautioned that if illegal drug activities continue, the market will be shut down again. He also warned that any attack on NAFDAC officials during future operations would result in stricter actions against the market.
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