By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has called on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to place greater emphasis on tackling the root causes of counterfeit drug circulation.

He said this can be done by scrutinizing the entire pharmaceutical supply chain.

Soludo spoke at the weekend during his visit to the open drug market, popularly known as Ogbo ?gw?, in the commercial city of Onitsha.

The market was recently shut down by NAFDAC due to the sale of fake and substandard medications.

The closure is part of a broader effort to safeguard public health and restore confidence in the pharmaceutical sector.

Speaking at the market, the Governor stressed that while enforcement actions like market closures are necessary, addressing the supply chain issues is the key to ensuring long-term success in the fight against counterfeit drugs.

He pointed out that his administration has been actively engaging with NAFDAC to facilitate a sustainable solution, adding that the market will be reopened within the next ten days after necessary measures have been put in place.

The governor commended NAFDAC for its commitment to regulatory enforcement and pledged his administration?s continued support in eradicating the menace of fake drugs.

While urging traders and pharmaceutical stakeholders to cooperate fully with regulatory agencies to strengthen quality control and enhance the integrity of drug distribution, Soludo encouraged members of the public to report suspicious drug-related activities, emphasizing that community vigilance is crucial in combating counterfeit pharmaceuticals.

He also engaged with local traders, advising them to uphold best practices and work collaboratively with authorities to ensure that only genuine and approved medications reach consumers.

The governor?s visit reaffirms the government?s dedication to improving healthcare standards and protecting citizens from the dangers of fake drugs.

During the visit, Soludo was taken round the market and briefed on key findings from the ongoing investigation into illegal drug distribution.

He was accompanied on the visit by the State Commissioner of Police, CP Orutugu and NAFDAC?s South East Regional Comptroller, Mr. Iluyomade Martins,