The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced the reopening of the Onitsha Drug Market and adjoining markets.
NAFDAC South-East Zonal Director, Martins Iluyomade, made this known after a meeting with Anambra State officials and market union leaders.
He confirmed that businesses will resume on Friday, though 4,000 shops will remain locked pending further investigations.
NAFDAC closed the markets last month due to the presence of illicit and substandard drugs, prompting extensive enforcement actions.
Iluyomade revealed that over 50 trailers of fake and substandard drugs were seized, including dangerous narcotics capable of destabilizing the nation.
He warned that if illicit drug activities persist, the agency will not hesitate to shut down the market again.
NAFDAC also raised concerns over poor drug storage conditions, leading to premature loss of efficacy and increased health risks.
Market union leaders welcomed the reopening and pledged to collaborate with authorities in identifying illegal drug dealers.
