By Bolaji Okunola
The Coalition Against Counterfeit Pharmaceutical Products (CACPP), in conjunction with Nigerian Representatives of Overseas Pharmaceutical Manufacturers (NIROPharm) is currently seeking collaborations with relevant stakeholders to eradicate counterfeit drugs in Nigeria.
This was revealed in the body’s inaugural forum which took place on the November 28, 2022, in Lagos. Discussing way forward, convener, Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, hinted he could not wait to see the initiative yield positive results.
In his words: “It is borne out of the desire to take a firmer stand against counterfeit pharmaceutical products in Nigeria through engagement and advocacy. For most African nations, combating counterfeit pharmaceutical products is even more challenging due to the lack of synergy between key stakeholders in the industry and government agencies,” he stated.
In a similar vein, president, NIPROPHARM, Femi Soremekun, disclosed the idea will served as solution to one of the negativity facing the industry.
“In recent years, the fight against counterfeit pharmaceutical products has taken new dimensions. It is like a race against time for pharmaceutical companies – the cost to our collective health and economies is enormous. Over the years, companies are perplexed as to how best to nip the challenges in the bud. The challenges are overwhelming owing to the sophistication of the activities of counterfeiters.
“Combating counterfeit pharmaceutical products is a herculean task, one that requires strong collaborations between government agencies and key stakeholders because of the impact and I hope with this plan, we shall eradicate unwanted drugs in the community,” he opined.
Stressing further about the importance of the initiative, manager, Pfizer Limited, Olayinka Subair, noted that Nigerians need to applaud the CACPP for launching an idea capable of proffering lasting solution to circulation of fake drugs.
“Counterfeit medicines don’t cure any disease, rather they put patients’ health at risk because of their contents. It ultimately impedes the healthcare system. Lives are lost and medical conditions worsened due to this cankerworm. It is not an individual’s battle; it requires collective effort.
“Nigerians need to champion the anti-counterfeit cause, especially as regards healthcare. We need to join hands together because there is no shortcut with health. Due process must be followed to get the best results. Unlike commodities, fake drugs are life-threatening. This means patients should only buy prescribed medicines from accredited pharmacies and not quacks or roadside vendors,’ he pleaded.