The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised concern over the circulation of counterfeit cancer drugs in Nigeria, warning that such products could result in treatment failure, serious health complications, or even death.
In a public alert, the agency revealed that fake batches of Avastin and Tecentriq have been discovered in the country.
NAFDAC explained that the alert followed reports from Roche Nigeria, which received several complaints from healthcare professionals across the country about suspected counterfeit products.
According to the agency, some patients had already bought and presented the drugs at health facilities, with prices ranging between ₦180,000 and ₦350,000 — far below the cost of genuine versions.
Investigations pointed to clear signs of counterfeiting, including mismatched batch numbers, poor-quality printing, incorrect text placement, and irregular serial numbers that do not match Roche’s standard system.
NAFDAC identified specific counterfeit batches of Avastin with numbers H4239A70, H2290A34, and A3508B02, as well as Tecentriq batch B3071A12.
The agency noted, however, that laboratory analysis could not be carried out because no physical samples were obtained, relying instead on packaging evidence provided by complainants.
It warned that fake oncology drugs may contain wrong or no active ingredients, harmful substances, or incorrect dosages, posing serious risks to patients.
“All zonal directors and state coordinators have been directed to intensify surveillance and mop up the counterfeit products across the country,” the agency said.
NAFDAC urged importers, distributors, healthcare providers, and patients to remain vigilant and ensure medicines are sourced only from authorised suppliers. It also called on the public to report any suspected fake or substandard drugs through its official channels.
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