NAFDAC seizes N1.5bn counterfeit products in Lagos

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Saturday conducted a major operation in Lagos, seizing counterfeit, banned, expired, and unregistered products valued at over N1.5 billion.

The operation, carried out by NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement team, targeted the cosmetics section of the Trade Fair market.

During the operation, a truckload of counterfeit products regulated by NAFDAC was also intercepted.

Dr. Martins Iluyomade, NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, led the team and spoke to journalists about the agency’s continued efforts to eliminate harmful products from Nigerian markets. He emphasized that the operation was part of NAFDAC’s broader national action plan to safeguard public health by removing dangerous products from circulation.

“We have received numerous complaints from Nigerians regarding unsafe products,” Iluyomade said.

“This operation is a continuation of our efforts to remove such products and protect the public.”

He explained that some of the confiscated items were banned products that had entered the market illegally, bypassing necessary testing and regulatory procedures. Additionally, many expired products were found still being sold in warehouses.

The total value of the seized goods exceeds N1.5 billion, and the owners of the warehouses holding the unwholesome products have been invited for investigation.

“If they are found guilty, they will face legal consequences,” Iluyomade warned.

NAFDAC’s director outlined the agency’s process of ensuring product safety, which involves visual inspections followed by laboratory testing to confirm the contents of products before they are approved for sale.

He also cautioned that some products may appear harmless but contain dangerous or carcinogenic chemicals.

“All products, whether imported or locally made, must meet NAFDAC standards before being distributed,” he added.

“Traders who bypass proper registration endanger public health.”

Describing food and drug regulation as a matter of national security, Iluyomade called for greater national attention to the threat posed by contaminated food and skincare products.

He urged Nigerians to avoid harmful practices that jeopardize public health.

While assuring the public of NAFDAC’s commitment to protecting consumers, he reiterated that the agency supports businesses but prioritizes the safety of the Nigerian populace.

“Our mission is not to oppose businesses, but to guide and protect all stakeholders, including business owners,” he said.

NAFDAC vowed to continue its fight against the circulation of counterfeit, banned, and expired products to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerians.