Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to industrialization and economic growth through strategic investments in infrastructure, power supply, and policy reforms.

Speaking at the commissioning of O-Care Disposable Syringes, Lagos State’s first medical syringe factory, established by Transgreen Nigeria Limited at Odofin Park Estate, Ijesha, Apapa-Oshodi, Sanwo-Olu emphasized the state’s dedication to fostering a business-friendly environment for industries to thrive.

Represented by his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the governor highlighted the O-Care Disposable Syringes factory as a symbol of innovation, resilience, and excellence. By producing high-quality, locally made syringes, the facility will reduce import dependency, create jobs, and enhance Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

“As we celebrate this milestone, let us recognize that this is just the beginning. Strengthening our healthcare infrastructure to meet global standards remains a top priority,” said Sanwo-Olu.

The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, commended the syringe factory as a crucial step toward advancing the Lagos THEMES+ Agenda, which prioritizes healthcare development and ensures access to essential medical infrastructure. She emphasized the administration’s commitment to revitalizing and modernizing Lagos’ healthcare sector for efficient service delivery.

Sanwo-Olu Reiterates Commitment to Infrastructure Development

Transgreen Nigeria Limited’s Managing Director, Cyprian Orakpo, acknowledged the challenges of running a manufacturing company in Nigeria, citing access to capital, high energy costs, and multiple tax burdens as key obstacles. However, he expressed optimism that strategic government support would help address these barriers and boost local manufacturing.

The commissioning of O-Care Disposable Syringes marks a significant leap forward in Lagos State’s industrialization efforts, reinforcing the government’s dedication to economic growth, job creation, and healthcare advancement.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has made alarming discoveries during its ongoing enforcement operation at the Idumota open drug market in Lagos.

During the raid, officials seized expired condoms, counterfeit GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) medicines, unregistered narcotics, and vaccines stored in unsanitary conditions—some shockingly found in toilets. The agency disclosed this in a statement posted on 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) on Thursday.

A particularly concerning find was expired condoms donated by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which had been repackaged and sold under the brand name “Kiss Condom.” The operation, conducted on Tuesday, also led to the confiscation of banned drugs such as Analgin, improperly stored Oxytocin for maternal health, and vaccines requiring cold-chain storage but left in unsafe conditions.

NAFDAC Seals 3,000 Lagos Shops, Confiscates 12 Truckloads of Counterfeit Drugs

NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating counterfeit and substandard medical products, emphasizing the severe health risks posed by these illegal drugs and medical supplies. The agency stated that enforcement actions will continue, targeting illicit drug networks and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

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

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), NAFDAC revealed shocking violations, including vaccines stored in dilapidated, unventilated rooms sealed with iron sheets—conditions posing serious public health risks.

Officials also uncovered large consignments of banned and dangerous drugs, including:

• Analgin injections (a banned painkiller)
• Diverted HIV antiretroviral drugs
• Expired medicines illegally set for revalidation
• Unregistered pharmaceuticals

Additionally, 12 truckloads of illicit pharmaceuticals were confiscated. Empty packs and cartons of expired antimalarial injections were found inside a repackaging shop, with the vials already removed.

In a warehouse away from the main pharmaceutical section, officials discovered a stash of controlled substances, including:

• Ecstasy (MDMA/Molly)
• High-dose Tramadol 225
• Various brands of Codeine Cough Syrup

NAFDAC continues its crackdown to rid the market of counterfeit and dangerous drugs, ensuring public safety.