To reduce counterfeiting and discourage open drug marketing, the Federal Government yesterday inaugurated the Onitsha Mega Drug Distribution Centre.
Health Minister Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu said the centre would ease the chaotic drug distribution in Nigeria and reduce fake drugs in circulation.
Chukwu, represented by the Director, National Drug Policy Programme, Mrs. Joyce Ugwu, at the inauguration in Lagos, said the centre didn't align with the National Guidelines for Drug Distribution (NGDD) because it was built before the rules were formulated.
He called on private individuals and organisations to invest in building mega drug markets to address the "uncoordinated" drug distribution in Nigeria.
The minister said: "The distribution centres are far from the rural dwellers and concentrated in urban centres so we need them across the country.
"Mega Drug Distribution Centres are needed across the remaining five geopolitical zones.
"Wholesalers and retailers are also required to ensure evenly distribution of drugs."
