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JUST IN: House of Reps demands urgent crackdown on fake drug syndicates
The House of Representatives has called for a more aggressive crackdown on the production and distribution of counterfeit and expired drugs in Nigeria, following the recent discovery of an illegal drug manufacturing facility in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Abia State.
The resolution was moved by Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, who raised alarms over the growing issue of fake pharmaceuticals during plenary in Abuja on Tuesday.
Ezechi revealed that the illegal factory, located in a remote village, was involved in rebranding expired drugs by altering their expiry dates and producing counterfeit medications, including injectables, which were being distributed to unsuspecting Nigerians.
“The consumption of fake and substandard drugs poses severe health risks, including treatment failures, drug resistance, and even death,” Ezechi stated.
He warned that such criminal activities undermine Nigeria’s healthcare system and put millions at risk.
The House expressed deep concern that the Osisioma Ngwa incident was not an isolated case but part of a broader public health crisis, as similar counterfeit drug operations have been uncovered across the country.
The lawmakers noted that the circulation of such harmful products has contributed to Nigeria’s high mortality rate, with citizens unknowingly consuming ineffective or toxic medications.
The House strongly condemned the production and distribution of fake drugs and commended law enforcement agencies for their efforts in uncovering the Abia State operation.
It urged the federal government to direct the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), and other relevant agencies to intensify surveillance, inspections, and crackdowns on fake drug manufacturers and distributors nationwide.
The lawmakers noted that the circulation of such harmful products has contributed to Nigeria’s high mortality rate, with citizens unknowingly consuming ineffective or toxic medications.
The House strongly condemned the production and distribution of fake drugs and commended law enforcement agencies for their efforts in uncovering the Abia State operation.
It urged the federal government to direct the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), and other relevant agencies to intensify surveillance, inspections, and crackdowns on fake drug manufacturers and distributors nationwide.
Additionally, the House mandated its Committees on Health and Drugs and Narcotics to investigate the widespread issue of counterfeit drugs in the country.
It also called for increased public awareness campaigns on the dangers of fake drugs and the introduction of advanced tracking and authentication systems to help consumers verify the authenticity of pharmaceutical products before purchase.
The House also urged the Federal Ministry of Health, in collaboration with security agencies, to implement stricter penalties for individuals and organizations involved in the illegal drug trade, ensuring that offenders face the full weight of the law.
News
Ex -Chief Justice Muhammad Tanko is dead
Muhammed died at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, about two weeks to his 72 birthday on December 31.
A former Chief Justice of Nigeria ( CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, is dead. He was aged 71.
Muhammed died at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, about two weeks to his 72 birthday on December 31.
Born on 31 December 1953 in Doguwa, Giade Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Justice Muhammad was a Fulani and a native of Bauchi State.
His judicial career spanned more than four decades, during which he served at various levels of Nigeria’s judicial system.
Bauchi state governor, Bala Mohammed, confirmed Muhammad’s passing in a condolence message issued by his special adviser on media and publicity, Mukhtar Gidado.
“Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad exemplified the qualities of a patriotic Nigerian who devoted his life to the service of justice and the advancement of our great nation.
His passing is a significant loss, not only to Bauchi State but to the Nigerian judiciary and the rule of law,” the statement reads.
News
Aircraft crashes in Owerri with four persons onboard
According to the NSIB, the aircraft crashed on the approach area of Runway 17, but no fatalities have been recorded so far.
Aircraft crashes in Owerri with four persons onboardBy : Olusegun KoikiDate: 17 December 2025 12:11am WATShare :Mars AviationMars AviationA Cessna 172 aircraft with registration number 5N-ASR, operated by Skypower Express, has crashed at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State.
The aircraft had departed Kaduna International Airport en route to Port Harcourt International Airport before diverting to Owerri after the crew declared an emergency.
The crash occurred at about 8:00 pm on the airport premises, with four passengers and crew members onboard.Confirming the incident, the Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, said the agency had been notified of the crash.
According to the NSIB, the aircraft crashed on the approach area of Runway 17, but no fatalities have been recorded so far.
The statement said: “Following the occurrence, airport emergency services were successfully activated and arrived on site promptly.
Reports indicate that there was no post-crash fire, and the runway remains active for flight operations, with other aircraft taking off safely after the incident.
“Efforts are currently underway to coordinate the recovery and evacuation of the distressed aircraft from the crash site to allow for a detailed wreckage examination.”
(The Guardian)
Transcorp Hotels Plc, the hospitality arm of Transnational Corporation Plc (Transcorp Group) and operator of the iconic Transcorp Hilton Abuja, has announced the appointment of Dr. (Mrs.) Awele Vivien Elumelu, OFR, as Chairperson of its Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2026.
The appointment follows the scheduled retirement of the current Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel N. Nnorom, on the same date.
Dr. Elumelu, a qualified medical doctor with an MBBS from the University of Benin and clinical experience in Nigeria and the UK, brings extensive expertise in healthcare, insurance, corporate governance, and philanthropy. She currently chairs Avon Healthcare Limited (Avon HMO), Nigeria’s leading health management organization, Avon Medical Practice, and Heirs Insurance Brokers. She is also a founding director of Heirs Holdings Limited.
Her executive education includes programs at Harvard Business School, IMD Switzerland, and the London School of Economics.
Beyond business, Dr. Elumelu is a Trustee and Co-Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Africa’s premier philanthropy focused on empowering young entrepreneurs.
She has played a key role in promoting gender inclusion and supporting over 24,000 African youth with seed funding, training, and mentorship.In a statement, Transcorp Group Chairman Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, CFR — who is married to Dr. Elumelu — expressed enthusiasm about the appointment:
“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Awele Elumelu as the Board Chair of Transcorp Hotels. Her distinguished track record perfectly aligns with our ambition to redefine hospitality through innovation, wellness integration, and responsible business practices. Her strategic insight will be invaluable as we continue to elevate guest experiences and deliver sustainable value to all stakeholders.”
Transcorp Hotels Plc, listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX: TRANSCOHOT), is known for setting hospitality benchmarks in Africa, managing flagship properties like the Transcorp Hilton Abuja and the newly launched 5,000-capacity Transcorp Centre.
The leadership transition comes as the company pursues growth in innovation and wellness-focused hospitality, amid Transcorp Group’s broader investments in power, energy, and hospitality sectors.
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