In response to the rising concern over fake anti-malaria drugs in Nigeria, the House of Representatives has issued a directive for an immediate baseline survey across all six geo-political zones of the country. This decision was made during a session following a motion of urgent public importance introduced by lawmakers representing constituencies in Edo and Abia states.
Titled “Motion on the Urgent Need to conduct a national baseline survey on fake anti-malaria medicines in Nigeria,” the motion stressed the critical nature of addressing the use of counterfeit drugs, citing complications in treatment and an elevated risk of death associated with their consumption.
During the session, legislators underscored the importance of intensifying efforts to combat the circulation of fake drugs, acknowledging the work done by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). However, they emphasized the need for additional measures to tackle this public health challenge effectively.
The baseline survey, which has been given a four-week deadline for completion, aims to provide essential information to guide strategies in the fight against counterfeit anti-malaria medicines. The legislators believe that this survey will play a pivotal role in assessing the situation before and after the implementation of initiatives aimed at curbing the use of fake malaria drugs in Nigeria.