Gov Adeleke Pledges Support for NAFDAC, Encourages Whistleblowing Against Fake Drugs
The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to protect public health and eliminate counterfeit and substandard products across the state.
Speaking at the Government House, Oke-fia, Osogbo, while receiving the State Coordinator of NAFDAC, Osun State Chapter, and members of the management team, the Governor congratulated the new coordinator on the appointment and described the visit as timely, stressing the importance of collaboration between federal agencies and state governments.
The Governor noted that the activities of NAFDAC remain critical to public health, consumer protection and economic stability, particularly in addressing the growing menace of fake drugs, substandard food items and unregulated consumables that pose serious risks to lives and undermine confidence in the healthcare system.
Commending NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts in enforcement, regulation and public sensitisation, the Governor emphasised that effective regulation cannot be achieved in isolation, but through strong cooperation, intelligence sharing and engagement with security agencies and local communities.
Assuring NAFDAC of full support, Governor Adeleke said Osun State would continue to partner with the agency to strengthen enforcement, improve public awareness and ensure compliance with regulatory standards in markets and healthcare facilities across the state.
On NAFDAC’s request for inclusion in the State Security Council, the Governor acknowledged the relevance of regulatory agencies to broader security and public safety concerns, noting that the request would be carefully examined within the existing framework to enhance coordination and effectiveness.
Governor Adeleke further urged NAFDAC to intensify engagement with traders, manufacturers and residents, while calling on members of the public to act as whistleblowers by promptly reporting any outlet involved in the sale of fake drugs, stressing that the agency must carry out its duties diligently and transparently without compromise or inducement, in order to rid Osun State of fake drug dealers and safeguard lives.
Speaking earlier, the State Coordinator of NAFDAC, Mr Stephen Aina, appreciated the state governor for its support and partnership with NAFDAC.
He explained that NAFDAC remains committed to ensuring that people consume only standard and safe products, including drugs and other regulated items, while also commending the state for the prevailing atmosphere of peace that has aided the agency’s activities.
Mr Aina further disclosed that the agency has been engaging in outreach programmes to educate and encourage young people to embrace entrepreneurship, advising them to always register their businesses as required by law. He, however, appealed to the government to further support the agency through the provision of logistics such as operational vehicles, staff quarters, and other essential needs to improve efficiency.