Cosmetics, Food and Beverages Account for Over 50% of Counterfeit Products in Nigeria, NAFDAC Reveals
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has disclosed that cosmetics, food products, and beverages account for more than half of all counterfeit goods circulating in Nigeria, raising concerns over the growing threat posed by fake products to public health and consumer safety.
The agency made the disclosure during activities marking the 2026 International Anti Counterfeit Month, highlighting the increasing prevalence of counterfeit goods across various sectors of the economy.
According to NAFDAC, counterfeit cosmetics remain the most commonly seized fake products, followed closely by food items and beverages. The agency noted that the widespread distribution of these products continues to endanger consumers, many of whom unknowingly purchase and use substandard or fake items.
NAFDAC warned that advances in technology and the expansion of online shopping platforms have made it easier for counterfeiters to import and distribute fake products. Criminal networks are increasingly exploiting cargo consolidation systems and logistics channels to bring counterfeit goods into the country while concealing their identities.
The agency also expressed concern over the growing sophistication of counterfeit operations, noting that many fake products are packaged to closely resemble genuine brands, making it difficult for consumers to identify them.
NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to strengthening surveillance, enhancing product verification systems, and working closely with security agencies to combat the menace. The agency urged Nigerians to purchase regulated products only from trusted outlets and report suspicious products to the appropriate authorities.
The regulator emphasized that the fight against counterfeit goods requires the collective efforts of government agencies, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to protect public health and maintain confidence in the marketplace.