NAFDAC Uncovers ₦5.3 Billion Counterfeit Drink Trade

The surge in counterfeit and fake drinks in Nigeria has reached alarming levels, as evidenced by enforcement operations revealing extensive networks of illicit production and distribution. In Lagos, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) discovered over twenty illegal stores within the International Trade Fair Complex, where operators blended and repackaged popular alcoholic brands and revalidated expired beverages.

The value of the haul exceeded ₦2 billion, with two suspects arrested. Parallel operations in Aba resulted in the seizure of counterfeit materials worth hundreds of millions of naira, including labels and packaging for well-known brands.

A facility on Omenazu Street was found to have an unhygienic setup for manufacturing spirits, with a 200-litre drum of liquid ethanol and dirty equipment. These actions are part of a broader effort, with weekly seizures exceeding ₦5.3 billion in counterfeit products.

The organized syndicates endanger public health, with the potential for severe health consequences for consumers.