63% of sanitizers are counterfeit, says Federal Government

The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 said yesterday, July 16, that about 63 per cent of alcohol-based hand sanitisers in circulation are not registered and may not be genuine.

PTF Chairman and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Boss Mustapha said this at the PTF briefing in Abuja. He added that the Minister of Health had issued an advisory to the public to procure pharmaceutical products from credible sources.

The SGF said: “As part of the non-pharmaceutical measures, we recommended in line with global practice, the use of hand sanitizers. Ordinarily, that ought to stimulate local production because of increased demand.

“We regret to inform you that following a survey conducted by the Nigeria Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) to check the influx of substandard goods, it was revealed that 63 per cent of alcohol-based sanitizers in Abuja does not have NAFDAC registration numbers. There could also be similar situations around the country.

“The PTF appeals to the patriotic spirit of Nigerians and request that they desist from manufacturing sub-standard goods which could further endanger other unsuspecting Nigerians who innocently purchase them.”