By Chinaza Osigwe
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced the phased reopening of shops at the Ogbo-Ogwu drug market in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The move comes nearly two months after the market was shut down on February 10, 2025, following widespread concerns over the sale of counterfeit, unregistered, and substandard pharmaceutical products.
Leading the reopening process is NAFDAC Deputy Director, Mr. Tunji Omoyemi, who noted that only traders whose shops have met the agency’s safety and documentation requirements are being cleared to resume operations.
He emphasized that the unsealing of shops would continue in batches as the agency carries out thorough inspections to ensure full compliance with regulatory standards.
Addressing traders during the exercise, Chairman of the Ogbo-Ogwu market, Mr. Ndubuisi Chukwulota, appealed for maximum cooperation with NAFDAC officials. He urged all shop owners to prioritize adherence to safety standards to allow for a smooth and complete reopening of the market.
The gradual reopening marks a critical step toward restoring commercial activities at one of West Africa’s largest drug markets while reinforcing the government’s commitment to public health and consumer protection.
