KEY POINTS
- NAFDAC seizes counterfeit cosmetics worth ₦37 million ($23,125) in Abuja.
- Raids targeted several supermarkets and open markets in the city.
- Seized products will be destroyed to ensure public safety.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confiscated counterfeit cosmetics worth ₦37 million ($23,125) in Abuja, escalating its campaign against harmful products.
Coordinated raids and seizure
Acting on intelligence, NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate conducted raids across supermarkets and open markets, including Wuse and Garki markets in Abuja.
These coordinated efforts led to the seizure of several unregistered and counterfeit cosmetic products with a total street value of ₦37 million ($23,125).
A statement issued by the agency revealed that the raids were a result of ongoing efforts to rid the market of harmful products and prioritize consumer safety.
“NAFDAC is committed to investigating the sources of these illegal products and will take strict regulatory action against those involved,” the statement read.
The seized items were found to be unregistered and counterfeit, posing significant risks to consumer health. Furthermore, by NAFDAC’s regulations, all confiscated items will be destroyed to ensure public safety and prevent reentry into the market.
Consumer health and public safety
NAFDAC has been actively intensifying its regulatory efforts to combat the proliferation of substandard and counterfeit cosmetics and other health products across Nigeria.
However, the agency’s proactive approach aims to protect public health by removing harmful products from the market.
“All confiscated items will be destroyed in line with the agency’s laws and regulations, ensuring public safety,” NAFDAC reiterated.
According to Punch, the agency has also pledged to continue its raids and clamp down on illegal products across the country, emphasizing that consumer health and safety remain a top priority.
In addition, the agency warned that individuals or companies found guilty of producing or distributing counterfeit products would face stringent penalties, as NAFDAC is determined to safeguard the health of Nigerians by ensuring that only safe and approved products are sold in the market.
Continued efforts against counterfeit goods
The seizure in Abuja is part of NAFDAC’s broader effort to fight counterfeit goods nationwide. Moreover, the agency has been engaging stakeholders and conducting public awareness campaigns to educate consumers about the dangers of counterfeit products.
Furthermore, NAFDAC has encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected counterfeit products. As the agency continues its commitment to combating counterfeit products, consumers are urged to look for NAFDAC approval numbers before purchasing any cosmetics or health-related products.
