The National Association of Nigerian Students has called for stronger action against the circulation of suspected fake drugs, adulterated food and other unsafe consumer products across Nigeria.
The students’ body raised concerns over the sale of questionable products in markets, by roadside sellers and through online platforms, warning that weak monitoring could expose millions of Nigerians to serious health risks.
The News Chronicle reports that NANS Senate President Moses Ibeabuchi cited reports involving suspected counterfeit toothpaste, palm oil, yoghurt, soy sauce, olive oil and artificially enhanced fruits as evidence of growing concerns over consumer safety.
NANS urged regulatory agencies to improve surveillance, product verification and traceability, particularly for drugs, supplements, cosmetics and food sold through social media and e-commerce platforms.
Meanwhile, Dele Oye, Chairman of the Alliance for Economic Research and Ethics, said Nigeria’s economic reforms have improved macroeconomic stability but have yet to deliver enough relief to households.
Oye pointed to the country’s $53.11 billion in foreign reserves and 4.43 percent second-quarter economic growth as signs of improving fundamentals. However, he argued that stronger economic figures must translate into lower food prices, better jobs and improved living standards.
He also cited an IMF estimate of 63 percent poverty at the national poverty line and 27 million Nigerians facing food insecurity, highlighting the continuing gap between economic recovery and household welfare.
