Minister of State for Health, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong said this at a networking programme of the Nigerian Representatives of Overseas Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (NIROPHARM) held at Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja, Lagos on Tuesday.

"Let me therefore report my earlier warning to those who must destroy to make a living that government views the menance of drug faking as a serious matter of national security. Therefore, government will amend the existing laws to instil stiffer penalties for drug fakers," he said.

Hong, who was represented by Mr. Joe Adazadzu said Federal Government would adopt other measures to sanitise "chaotic drug distribution in the country which is closely linked with faking."

Noting that fake drugs has eroded confidence in the country's healthcare delivery, Dr. Hong called for concerted efforts to stem the tide. He promised that government would strengthen the existing laws to enhance Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) by local pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Hong contended that fake and substandard drugs can be eliminated through investment in local drug production. "I will therefore encourage NIROPHARM to consider the wise option of investing in local drug production," he said while lauding the group for developing a code of its members.

Hong suggested that NIROPHARM should go "beyond promotional practices to cover such other practices to cover such other practices that will lead to the disciplined manufacturing, importation and distribution of only genuine drugs because of the peculiar nature of our environment."

Also speaking at the event, President of NIROPHARM, Mr. Ade Popoola, a pharmacist said the talkshop was to boost professionalism and government's rebrand product.

He expressed hope that deliberations from the workshop would help the healthcare sector. In his goodwill message to the workshop, the Registrar, Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), Mr. Ahmed Morah lauded NIROPHARM for its draft copy of Nigerian Pharmaceutical (NIPHARMA) Code of Promotional Practices.

"The NIPHARMA code is found more interesting as it does not present to be self-sufficient. It sought to be consistent with highest ethical standards on the pedestal of international standards and practice as well as being compatible with applicable national laws and regulations of Nigeria," he said.

Other dignitaries at the event are Dr. Ebun bamigboye, Mr. Joe Odumodu and Prince Julius Adeluyi.