In a bold operation aimed at protecting Nigerian consumers, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered expired goods valued at a staggering ₦75 million in Kaduna.
The discovery, which led to the sealing of the warehouse, marks a significant victory in the agency’s fight against the circulation of substandard and potentially harmful products in the market.
The warehouse, Amanat.com, located on PP2A Bayajidda Street near Kano Road and New Ogbomosho Road, was found stocked with expired food and cosmetic items. These included everyday household goods such as biscuits, dairy milk, vegetable oil, soft drinks, and detergents.
Tip-Off from Concerned Citizen
NAFDAC’s intervention followed a tip-off from a vigilant Nigerian who suspected foul play. Acting on the information, the agency launched a surveillance operation to confirm the report before striking.
Shaba Muhammed, NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, shared the details of the raid in a statement released on Tuesday.
“When we arrived at the premises, we discovered workers actively repackaging expired biscuits into sacks to conceal their origin. This act not only violates regulatory standards but also puts the health of unsuspecting Nigerians at serious risk,” Muhammed stated.
Arrests and Investigations
The managing director of the warehouse has been arrested and is currently assisting NAFDAC with its investigations. Muhammed confirmed that regulatory penalties would follow, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to holding offenders accountable.
“Our investigation is ongoing, and we are prepared to apply the full weight of the law to deter others engaging in similar illegal activities,” he said.
Muhammed also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to NAFDAC. “We cannot do this alone; public participation is crucial. If you suspect any fraudulent activities or questionable items, report them to the nearest NAFDAC office,” he appealed.
A Wake-Up Call for Regulators and Consumers
This operation comes as NAFDAC intensifies its efforts to curb the proliferation of substandard goods in Nigerian markets. The agency has been battling challenges posed by unscrupulous manufacturers and retailers who exploit regulatory loopholes.
Experts in consumer protection have applauded NAFDAC’s actions, noting the broader implications of such operations. Expired products not only pose health risks but also undermine consumer confidence in locally available goods.
In recent years, Nigeria has seen a rise in counterfeit and expired goods infiltrating its markets. The ease with which some manufacturers and retailers evade regulatory scrutiny has led to a growing call for stricter oversight and enforcement.
Consumer Risks
Expired food products can cause severe health problems, including food poisoning, infections, and long-term complications. The repackaging of such items, as witnessed in this raid, heightens the danger by disguising their substandard state.
“This is not just a case of fraud; it’s a public health issue,” said health expert Dr. Olusegun Adeyemi. “NAFDAC’s vigilance is essential, but consumers must also exercise caution. Always check expiration dates and purchase products from trusted sources.”
A History of Enforcement
This is not the first time NAFDAC has taken action against offenders dealing in expired goods. In 2023, the agency sealed several warehouses in Lagos and Onitsha, confiscating goods worth over ₦200 million. These efforts have consistently highlighted the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on the sale of unwholesome products.
Despite these successes, challenges remain. Resource constraints, lack of public awareness, and corruption within the supply chain have often hampered NAFDAC’s efforts to fully eliminate the problem.
Government’s Role in Consumer Safety
The Nigerian government has also pledged to strengthen consumer protection laws and provide more resources to agencies like NAFDAC. However, effective implementation remains a key hurdle.
“We need a system where offenders cannot slip through the cracks. Swift prosecution and stiff penalties are necessary to discourage these harmful practices,” said Barrister Uche Eze, a consumer rights advocate.
Call to Action
The Kaduna operation serves as a reminder of the power of community vigilance in complementing regulatory efforts. As Muhammed highlighted, public cooperation is vital in identifying and eliminating such threats.
“NAFDAC cannot be everywhere at once, but Nigerians can act as our eyes and ears. Together, we can ensure that only safe and quality products make it to the market,” he stated.
