The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has come under public attention following a major operation in Lagos that uncovered suspected fake alcoholic drinks worth more than ₦2 billion.
The operation took place on October 13 at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, along the Badagry Expressway in the Ojo area of Lagos State.
According to NAFDAC, its enforcement officers discovered more than 20 illegal stores allegedly being used to produce and store counterfeit alcoholic drinks. Some of the suspects were reportedly caught mixing fake drinks, copying popular brands and changing the labels or expiry details on drinks that were no longer safe for consumption.
The agency also said some of the stores contained banned imported products. Two suspects were arrested during the operation, while the seized goods were removed from the premises.
The discovery has raised concerns about the safety of alcoholic drinks sold to Nigerians, particularly products that may look genuine but contain unsafe ingredients or have passed their expiry dates.
The operation has also drawn attention to the wider financial impact of illegal alcohol sales. Industry estimates suggest that Nigeria loses about ₦428 billion in government revenue annually because of illegal alcohol trade, including smuggling, counterfeiting and tax evasion.
NAFDAC has urged Nigerians to remain careful when buying regulated products and report suspicious activities to the agency.
Members of the public can report suspected cases through its toll-free complaints line on 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322).
The agency says public cooperation remains important in tackling the sale of fake and potentially dangerous products.
