The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has inaugurated a seven-member task force in Kano State to clamp down on the circulation of fake drugs and unwholesome food products.
Speaking at the inauguration, the agency’s Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, described the move as a major step towards strengthening enforcement and protecting public health. She was represented at the event by the North-West Zonal Director, Fraden Nantim-Mullah.
Adeyeye warned that counterfeit drugs and unsafe food pose serious health risks, weaken trust in the healthcare system, and could negatively affect the country’s economy if not properly addressed. She noted that Kano’s position as a major commercial hub makes it particularly vulnerable to the spread of substandard and falsified products.
According to her, the task force will focus on intelligence gathering, surveillance, raids, seizure of illegal products, and prosecution of offenders. It will also carry out public awareness campaigns to educate residents on the dangers of fake products.
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Also speaking, the Kano State Secretary to the Government, Umar Ibrahim, said the initiative was necessary due to rising cases of drug abuse and the increasing presence of counterfeit goods in the state. He highlighted that youth, who make up a large portion of the population, are particularly affected.
He called for strong collaboration between federal and state authorities and warned against any interference that could hinder the task force’s work.
The chairman of the task force, Kamilu Mudi-Salisu, assured that the team would carry out its duties with commitment and professionalism. He also urged the public to support the effort by reporting suspicious activities.
The task force has been empowered to conduct raids, seal premises, seize illegal goods, and prosecute offenders in line with existing laws, as authorities intensify efforts to safeguard public health in Kano State.
