The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sealed more than 3,000 shops in the Idumota Open Drug Market, Lagos, during the first week of its operations.

In a statement on X on Sunday, NAFDAC revealed alarming violations uncovered during the raid, including vaccines stored in poorly ventilated, dilapidated rooms sealed with iron sheets, posing significant health risks.

The operation also led to the discovery of large consignments of banned and hazardous drugs, such as Analgin injections, diverted HIV antiretroviral drugs, and expired medications intended for illegal revalidation.

“In the first week of enforcement, NAFDAC screened and sealed over 3,000 shops within the Idumota Open Drug Market in Lagos.

“Among the discoveries were vaccines stored in dilapidated, unventilated rooms sealed with iron sheets in highly unsanitary conditions.

“Additionally, large consignments of banned products, including Analgin injections, diverted-free HIV antiretroviral drugs, expired medicines set for revalidation, and unregistered pharmaceuticals, were found.

“We have evacuated illicit pharmaceuticals equivalent to 12 truckloads. Empty packs and cartons of expired unregistered antimalarial injections were discovered inside a packing shop. The vials were removed.

“HappeningNow Ecstasy (MDMA or Molly), various brands of Codeine Cough Syrup and Tramadol 225, were discovered in a warehouse within the market, away from the pharmaceutical section where other products are sold.”