Fg bans production importation of codeine
You're referring to the recent ban on codeine in Nigeria!
Yes, on May 9, 2018, the Federal Government of Nigeria banned the production, importation, and sale of codeine, a cough syrup ingredient, in the country. This decision was taken after a surge in cases of codeine addiction and related health problems, particularly among young people.
The ban was announced by the Minister of Health, Isaac Adewole, who stated that the government had received reports of codeine being misused and abused, leading to addiction, mental health problems, and other health issues. The minister also noted that the ban was necessary to protect the health and well-being of Nigerians, particularly children and young people.
The ban applies to all codeine-based products, including cough syrups, and prohibits their production, importation, and sale in Nigeria. The government has also ordered the destruction of all existing stockpiles of codeine-based products.
The ban has been widely welcomed by health experts, who have long been concerned about the misuse of codeine and its potential health risks. However, some have raised concerns about the potential impact of the ban on the availability of legitimate codeine-based products for medical use.
It's worth noting that the ban is not a blanket prohibition on all cough syrups, but rather a targeted measure aimed at addressing the misuse of codeine. Other ingredients, such as dextromethorphan, can be used as alternatives in cough syrups.
Overall, the ban on codeine in Nigeria is a significant step towards addressing the country's public health challenges and promoting the well-being of its citizens.