The head of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria in Ekiti State, Martins Alutundu, commended the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration for its efforts to eliminate fake and low-quality drugs and improve the drug distribution system. Alutundu expressed support for the NAFDAC Director General and her team in their fight against counterfeit drugs, emphasizing the importance of this mission.
He highlighted the negative impacts of fake drugs, which include ineffective treatment, prolonged hospital stays, strain on healthcare providers, loss of human capital, medical tourism, and even death. Alutundu praised NAFDAC’s bold steps to clean up the chaotic Nigerian drug distribution system, which has long been compromised.
He emphasized the need to safeguard public health by eradicating counterfeit, substandard, and illicit drugs, as well as ensuring proper monitoring and tracking of medicines. Alutundu applauded the Ekiti State Governor for supporting the establishment of standard drug distribution practices in the state.
Alutundu called on all stakeholders to prioritize the implementation of Standard Drug Distribution and Coordinated Wholesale Centres to enhance drug monitoring and traceability. He urged political leaders and stakeholders to prioritize public health above all other considerations, emphasizing that everyone is a potential user of these essential drugs.