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 at the body’s recent inaugural forum in Lagos.
Discussing the way forward, the Convener, Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, said he couldn’t wait to see the initiative yield positive result. 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.
President, NIPROPHARM, Femi Soremekun, disclosed that the idea would serve as a solution to one of the negativities 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.
Further stressing the importance of the initiative, a Manager with Pfizer Plc, Olayinka Subair, noted that Nigerians needed to applaud the CACPP for launching an idea capable of proffering lasting a solution to the circulation of fake drugs.