The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has discovered a hidden stash of vaccines — including those for Yellow Fever, Diphtheria, Dano Anti-Tetanus, and Measles — concealed under a staircase at the bustling Idumota Drug Market in Lagos State.
According to NAFDAC, the vaccines were busted on Thursday during an operation carried out as part of a routine surveillance exercise targeting illegal drug distribution networks.
The Agency noted that the suspect was supplying the vaccines to neighbouring West African countries including Liberia.
In a post on its X page on Friday, NAFDAC said, “Yesterday at the Idumota Drug Market, NAFDAC officials discovered a stash of vaccines, including Yellow Fever, Dano Anti-Tetanus, Measles, and Diphtheria vaccines, hidden under a staircase.
“Preliminary investigations revealed the suspect was supplying these products to neighbouring West African countries like Liberia.”
The agency added that the premises where the vaccines were uncovered was equipped with CCTV cameras, suggesting active monitoring.
“The suspect has been apprehended and is currently in detention,” it added.
Dr. Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General of NAFDAC, had condemned the reckless handling of sensitive vaccines, stressing that the agency would intensify crackdowns on unauthorised drug dealers.
Recently, NAFDAC has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and urged Nigerians to report suspicious drug distribution activities to authorities.
The agency has also promised to continue its efforts to rid the country of fake drugs.
