Kogi cracks down on fake, expired drugs

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The Kogi State Government has announced renewed efforts to curb the circulation and sale of fake, substandard, and expired drugs across the state.

The Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Drugs and Medical Supply Management Agency, Pharm. Yunusa Salamat Onize disclosed this while speaking with the State House of Assembly correspondent shortly after defending the agency’s 2026 budget in Lokoja on Friday.

Onize said the agency has intensified strategies to halt the distribution of fake drugs, adding that mechanisms have also been deployed to prevent the diversion of drugs meant for public health facilities.

“If you visit our agency today, you will see that the State Government has built a fully equipped quality control laboratory. This is part of our commitment to ensuring that no fake or substandard drug finds its way into our system,” she said.

She added that the government recently sponsored a study tour to strengthen the agency’s capacity to combat the menace.

“We will not allow drug diversion in Kogi State. For the first time, the State Government has taken drugs to the doorsteps of all hospitals. We now have a dedicated vehicle that delivers drugs to every public health facility in the state,” she explained.

Onize further noted that beginning in 2026, quality control testing will be carried out on a full scale to verify the authenticity of drugs supplied by manufacturers.

She praised Governor Usman Ododo for his commitment to ensuring that quality drugs remain accessible and affordable to residents despite the prevailing economic challenges.

“Our achievements in 2025 were possible because of the strong political will of Governor Usman Ododo. He has shown that he genuinely cares about the health of Kogites, and this reflects in the support we receive,” she said.

Looking ahead, she expressed optimism that the agency will triple its supply of essential drugs and medical consumables to primary, secondary, and tertiary health institutions in 2026.

“With the level of commitment from the Governor and the Honourable Commissioner for Health, we are confident that 2026 will be a year of full implementation. Quality assurance, drug testing, and improved welfare for our health facilities will be top priorities,” she added.

Onize also urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspected circulation of fake drugs, stressing that the agency is determined to safeguard public health.

“We are appealing to the public to partner with us. If you see any suspicious drug product in circulation, report it. Together, we can protect the health of our people,” she said.

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