The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has taken decisive action in Port Harcourt, shutting down three substandard bakeries and a sachet water factory.
The closures come as a response to concerns over public health and safety, with the affected facilities found to be operating in makeshift structures made of wood and failing to meet hygienic standards.
The bakeries, situated in Rumuparali and Mgbuoba within the Obio/Akpor local government area, were not only unregistered but also failed to comply with essential safety regulations, according to Cyril Monye, the South South Zonal Public Relations Officer for NAFDAC.
Emmanuel Onogwu, NAFDAC Coordinator for Rivers State, led the operation, which was prompted by tips from concerned citizens and extensive investigations by the agency’s enforcement unit.
Alongside the closure of the bakeries, a sachet water factory located along the Mgbuoba-Choba Road in Obio/Akpor LGA was also shut down for operating in a facility different from its registered location and failing to adhere to standard best practices.
Expressing dismay at the activities of rogue producers of NAFDAC-regulated products, Pharm Onogwu emphasized NAFDAC’s unwavering commitment to its mandate of safeguarding public health. He urged the public to continue providing NAFDAC with vital information that could lead to the apprehension and crackdown of unregistered producers.
This proactive intervention underscores NAFDAC’s dedication to ensuring that only products meeting stringent quality and safety standards reach consumers, reaffirming its pivotal role in protecting the well-being of the populace.