NAFDAC Justifies N700,000 Penalty Imposed on Drug Traders in Lagos, Onitsha, and Aba, Citing Reduction from Initial N7 Million Fine Amid Public Outcry

In response to growing public criticism, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has offered clarification over the controversial N700,000 fine imposed on drug traders in key commercial cities including Lagos, Onitsha, and Aba. The agency revealed that the sum, which has sparked widespread backlash among traders and advocacy groups, was actually a significantly reduced amount from an original fine of N7 million.

According to NAFDAC, the enforcement was part of an ongoing campaign aimed at curbing the sale and distribution of substandard, counterfeit, and unregistered pharmaceutical products across the country. The affected traders were reportedly found in violation of several regulatory provisions, including operating without valid licenses and stocking unapproved drugs.

NAFDAC spokesperson, in an official statement, explained that while the initial penalty was N7 million—aligned with standard fines under the agency’s regulatory framework—it was scaled down to N700,000 as a concession aimed at promoting cooperation and providing a fair resolution pathway for non-compliant vendors. This leniency, the agency said, was particularly extended to first-time offenders who showed willingness to rectify their operations.

“NAFDAC is not in the business of crippling legitimate businesses but remains committed to safeguarding public health,” the statement read. “We urge traders to regularize their activities and adhere strictly to approved standards to avoid further sanctions.”

Despite the explanation, reactions remain mixed. Some stakeholders have commended the agency for showing flexibility, while others argue that even the reduced fine remains burdensome, especially for small-scale traders recovering from economic downturns.

Traders in the affected regions have called for more stakeholder engagement and sensitization campaigns instead of punitive actions, arguing that many of the infractions were due to a lack of awareness rather than intentional malpractice.

As the controversy continues, NAFDAC has reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians from harmful pharmaceutical practices and emphasized that compliance remains

non-negotiable.