The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has reopened the Bridgehead Drug Market in Onitsha after a month-long closure aimed at sanitising medicine distribution practices.
The market, including Ogbo Ogwu and three adjoining markets, was shut from February 10 to March 7 as part of a regulatory enforcement exercise.
In a statement on Wednesday, April 2, signed by its Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC announced the reopening under strict administrative conditions.
“To prevent a recurrence of the issues that led to the closure, NAFDAC implemented strict administrative conditions for reopening. Shop owners were required to complete documentation and clearance procedures before their shops could be unsealed.
“A dedicated NAFDAC desk was established to facilitate this process efficiently, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.”
READ ALSO: Health Time Bomb: NAFDAC Warns as Traders Sell Poisonous Mangoes
Prof. Adeyeye further stated, “The market has now been reopened, with all shop owners directed through their union to obtain and sign an undertaking, along with a penalty for past violations of distribution regulations. Only shops that meet these conditions will be allowed to resume operations.”
NAFDAC underscored the importance of stringent pharmaceutical regulations, noting that “Pharmaceuticals are highly regulated due to their direct impact on public health and national security.
“Under the NAFDAC Act, the agency remains committed to ensuring that all drug distribution channels comply with safety and regulatory standards.”
The agency also expressed appreciation for the support of stakeholders in the process, stating, “NAFDAC appreciates the cooperation of the market leadership and the Anambra State Government in facilitating this critical intervention.”