NAFDAC and Customs Uncover Billions in Counterfeit Goods

Nigeria is experiencing a significant crisis with counterfeit products, particularly fake drugs and adulterated beverages. In the last six months, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Nigeria Customs Service have conducted numerous raids, uncovering fake goods valued at billions of naira.

Earlier this month, NAFDAC raided over 20 illegal stores at Zamfara Plaza in the International Trade Fair Complex in Ojo, Lagos, seizing goods worth over ₦2 billion and arresting two suspects. In Agege, an illegal herbal factory was discovered producing counterfeit alcoholic bitters using a legitimate NAFDAC registration number.

In Aba, counterfeit labels and packaging valued at over ₦200 million were found. NAFDAC also destroyed fake and expired products worth ₦2.6 billion in Port Harcourt.

A nationwide sweep led to the sealing of 179 illegal outlets. The issue extends beyond Lagos, affecting states like Niger, where expired products were repackaged for sale.