The spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases may witness surge following the alert raised by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) about the illegal sale and distribution of an unregistered brand of condoms in Nigeria.
An alarm raised to this effect on Thursday by the Agency’s Post-Marketing Surveillance directorate indicated that Foula condoms (packaged in threes) were discovered in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, and Zango, Katsina State.
The Agency warned clearly that, “The condom is not registered by NAFDAC for use in Nigeria, and the labelling of the product is not in the English Language.
NAFDAC further stated that “Condoms are a proven effective barrier method that can be used as a dual-purpose method for both prevention of unintended pregnancy and protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. To be most effective, any barrier method used for contraception or preventing infection must be used correctly.”
It pointed out that the illegal distribution or sale of unregistered condoms poses a risk as the safety, quality, and efficacy of the products are not guaranteed.
The Agency lamented that the purchase and use of poor-quality condoms will adversely affect every aspect of condom promotion for the prevention of unintended pregnancy, and protection against HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Infections, adding that If condoms leak or break, they cannot offer adequate protection.
NAFDAC therefore directed all Zonal Directors and State Coordinators to carry out surveillance and mop up the unregistered products within the zones and states.
It enjoined Importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and consumers to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid importing, distributing, selling, and using illegally distributed products.
