Public Awareness of Mobile Authentication Service in Identifying Counterfeit Drugs in Rivers State Nigeria

Abstract

In 2010, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), a government agency in Nigeria, launched a technological scheme called Mobile Authentication Service to equip drug users in Nigeria with the knowledge of how to identify genuine drugs they have bought. This study examined public awareness and use of the Mobile Authentication Service in identifying counterfeit drugs in Rivers State Nigeria. The study was anchored on diffusion of innovation theory. It adopted the survey research method. A sample size of 384 was drawn from the population. The study applied multi-stage sampling, simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Questionnaire and interview served as instruments for data collection. Data generated were analyzed using qualitative and quantitative methods. The percentage and Likert scale mean value methods were adopted using the mean score benchmark of 2.5. Findings revealed among others that inspite of the Rivers State residents’ awareness of the Mobile Authentication Service, majority of them do not know how the scheme works and majority do not also apply it before taking their drugs. Based on the findings, the researchers recommended that the agency should redouble its efforts in creating public awareness on how the Mobile Authentication. Service works using the Mass Media. The agency should also initiate programme(s) in the media specially designed to inform and educate Rivers State residents on the danger of not applying the MAS scheme before taking their drugs.