THE ROLES OF NATIONAL AGENCY FOR FOODS AND DRUGS ADMINISTRATION AND CONTROL (NAFDAC) IN CURBING FAKE DRUGS AND FOOD IN THE NIGERIA ECONOMY

The food and drug industry is vital for national economic stability and public health, particularly through food supplements that help address nutrient deficiencies and mitigate chronic disease risks, especially among the aging population. Healthy nutrition is essential for preventing non-communicable diseases; however, the proliferation of counterfeit and substandard drugs threatens these benefits, undermining public health and economic growth. Despite NAFDAC's efforts to address these issues, challenges persist. This study assessed NAFDAC's role in combating counterfeit drugs and foods in Nigeria using a quantitative design, random sampling, and a semi-structured questionnaire analyzed with SPSS and Excel. Findings reveal mixed perceptions: 56.6% of respondents are aware of NAFDAC's efforts, but opinions on reducing counterfeit products are divided, with 39.3% disagreeing on improvements. The effectiveness of NAFDAC’s inspections is viewed skeptically, with 48.0% remaining neutral. Despite 49.3% checking NAFDAC registration numbers, 71.0% are dissatisfied with regulatory improvements in quality and safety. Major concerns include inadequate funding (30.0% strongly agreeing) and personnel shortages (14.0% strongly agreeing), while 90.0% cite corruption as a significant challenge. Recruitment and training efforts are seen as insufficient, though collaborations with other agencies are viewed positively. Overall, NAFDAC’s effectiveness in Nigeria is constrained by funding shortfalls, personnel shortages, and corruption, highlighting the urgent need for systemic reforms. Enhancing enforcement, training, and anti-corruption measures through increased financial support, targeted recruitment strategies, comprehensive training programs, formalized collaborations, and stricter internal controls could significantly improve the agency’s impact.