The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized expired, unregistered, and substandard food and cosmetic products valued at more than N350 million during a high-impact regulatory enforcement operation in Kano State.
The three-day crackdown, prompted by petitions from concerned citizens, was conducted across Singer Market and multiple supermarkets in the Kano metropolis. The operation was jointly led by the agency’s Directorate of Investigation and Enforcement and the North-West Zonal Office, and culminated in the confiscation of large volumes of non-compliant consumer products.
“The items seized include expired candies, beverages, and unregistered imported goods — many of which lacked English-language labeling in violation of regulatory requirements,” NAFDAC stated in a public disclosure posted via its official X handle on Sunday.
Well-known supermarket chains were also found to be stocking and distributing unregistered food and cosmetic items, all of which have been removed from circulation as part of the ongoing operation.
Strengthening Oversight and Accountability
NAFDAC confirmed that investigations are currently underway to trace the supply chains and identify individuals and organizations responsible for the distribution of these non-compliant products. Legal proceedings are expected to follow.
The agency has urged consumers to exercise caution and report any suspicious products or retail practices to the nearest NAFDAC office, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that only safe, quality-assured products are available in Nigerian markets.
“This operation underscores NAFDAC’s zero-tolerance stance on regulatory violations that endanger public health,” the agency emphasized.
A Consistent Regulatory Mandate
Under the leadership of Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC has intensified its enforcement activities to address the growing threat of counterfeit, expired, and substandard products in the Nigerian marketplace.
Earlier in January 2025, the agency destroyed fake and unwholesome goods worth approximately N1.37 billion in Abuja. The haul included expired beverages, rebagged rice, and unregistered cosmetics — some voluntarily surrendered by compliant entities. Speaking through Dr. Festus Ukadike, the agency reiterated that such destruction exercises are part of a broader strategy to cleanse the supply chain and protect consumers.
A subsequent operation in February 2025 in Rivers State saw the destruction of counterfeit products valued at N4.7 billion, including expired alcoholic beverages being illicitly revalidated and unregistered food items lacking mandatory vitamin A fortification.
Prof. Adeyeye has consistently warned of the grave health risks posed by substandard products, including treatment failures, drug resistance, prolonged illness, and fatalities. She continues to advocate for stronger legal instruments to enhance regulatory enforcement.
Legislative Backing for Enhanced Enforcement
In a move to reinforce its operational capabilities, NAFDAC has called on the National Assembly to fast-track the passage of the long-awaited Counterfeit Medical Products Bill. The proposed legislation aims to expand the agency’s authority to prosecute violators and dismantle counterfeit networks.
“Strengthening the legal framework is essential for deterring criminal profiteering at the expense of public health,” Prof. Adeyeye affirmed.
As NAFDAC continues its nationwide crackdown, its efforts signal a clear message: the safety and well-being of Nigerian consumers remain non-negotiable.
