Lagos, Nigeria – September 12, 2025 – In a significant breakthrough in the fight against counterfeit pharmaceuticals, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized 277 cartons of fake and unregistered Malamal Forte malaria drugs valued at over ₦1.2 billion during a high-impact raid in the Ilasa-Oshodi area of Lagos State.
The operation, led by NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, uncovered a large warehouse stocked with the falsified antimalarial drugs, which were intended for distribution across markets and pharmacies in Nigeria.
Safeguarding Public Health
Speaking at a press briefing, NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, said the seizure is part of ongoing efforts to safeguard public health and eliminate substandard and falsified medicines from circulation.
“These counterfeit drugs pose a serious threat to public health, particularly in a country where malaria remains a leading cause of illness and death. We are intensifying surveillance and enforcement to protect Nigerians from such dangerous products,” she stated.
Operation Details and Arrests
Officials revealed that the raid was carried out following an intelligence-led investigation, with collaboration from other security agencies. While no names have been disclosed yet, several suspects are reportedly in custody and are assisting with further investigations.
The counterfeit drugs, labeled as Malamal Forte, were found to be unregistered, poorly packaged, and lacking essential active ingredients, making them not only ineffective but potentially harmful.
A Boost for Regulatory Confidence
This latest seizure underscores NAFDAC’s strengthened resolve to rid Nigeria’s pharmaceutical supply chain of fake drugs. It also reinforces the agency’s Renewed Zero Tolerance Campaign against counterfeit medicines and unregistered products.
Public health advocates have hailed the successful operation as a win for consumer safety and regulatory credibility, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious drug products.
Looking Ahead
NAFDAC has pledged to prosecute those involved to the full extent of the law and warned that similar enforcement actions will continue across the country. The agency also encouraged Nigerians to always purchase medications from licensed pharmacies and verify product authenticity using its mobile authentication service.
With this major seizure, the agency has once again demonstrated its commitment to protecting lives and restoring confidence in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
More updates to follow as the investigation progresses.
