The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has reopened the popular Onitsha Head Bridge drug market, known as ‘Ogbo Ogwu.’ This comes after the market was shut down for a month due to concerns over fake and expired drugs.

To ensure such problems do not happen again, NAFDAC has set new rules that shop owners must follow before reopening their businesses.

According to NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, traders must complete specific documentation and clearance procedures before they can reopen their shops. A special NAFDAC desk has also been set up to assist in the process and ensure traders comply with all regulatory standards.

Additionally, shop owners must sign an agreement through their union, promising to follow all distribution regulations. Those who violated past rules will also face penalties. Only traders who meet all conditions will be allowed to resume operations.

NAFDAC had shut down the Onitsha drug market as part of its efforts to eliminate the sale of fake and expired medicines. The agency is committed to ensuring that only safe and approved drugs are available in the market.

With these new measures in place, NAFDAC hopes to create a safer drug market in Onitsha, protecting consumers from harmful and counterfeit products.