Posted on: Mon 11-08-2025

Abuja, Nigeria – In a dramatic turn of events, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has issued a stern warning to Nigerians, debunking a viral video that falsely claimed a “revolutionary diabetes drug” was announced by Coordinating Minister Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate. The ministry has labeled the footage—featuring manipulated clips from Channels TV and doctored public appearances—as a malicious hoax, urging the public to disregard the misleading narrative that promised free drug delivery to homes.
The deceptive video, which sparked chaotic scenes at pharmacies and even prompted police intervention, has been traced to altered broadcasts, raising alarm bells about the rising tide of health misinformation in Nigeria. With diabetes affecting 4.3% of the population according to the International Diabetes Federation’s 2023 data, the spread of such fake news threatens to undermine genuine healthcare efforts in a country where diabetes management has progressed from rudimentary urine testing in the 1990s to modern treatments today.
In a detailed press release issued late Sunday, the ministry clarified that no such drug has been approved or announced for nationwide distribution. “The claims are false and do not reflect any official position of the Federal Government,” the statement read, emphasizing that diabetes care remains part of ongoing non-communicable disease programs delivered through accredited health facilities in partnership with state governments and licensed professionals.
The ministry is not taking this lightly. Collaborating with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Broadcasting Commission, authorities are launching a full investigation to track down the source of this misinformation. This move aligns with global efforts, such as the World Health Organization’s Africa Infodemic Response Alliance, which since 2020 has highlighted social media as a major vector for health myths—studies suggest such misinformation can reduce vaccination rates by up to 6% in affected communities.
Health experts point to the Lancet Nigeria Commission (2022) to underscore the urgency of combating false cures. As Nigeria strives to improve life expectancy and quality of life—core goals of the ministry’s vision—the spread of such scams exploits hard-won medical progress. The ministry has urged citizens to verify health information only through official channels, including its website, verified social media handles, and accredited healthcare providers.
“This is a wake-up call for all Nigerians,” said Alaba Balogun, Head of Information and Public Relations. “We remain committed to evidence-based healthcare solutions and will not tolerate attempts to mislead the public.”
As the investigation unfolds, the Federal Government calls on the public to stay vigilant, avoid engaging with fraudulent posts soliciting personal details, and rely on credible sources to safeguard their health. With diabetes prevalence projected to rise, the battle against misinformation is as critical as the fight against the disease itself

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