The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has made a massive seizure of banned, expired, and unregistered products valued at over ₦1.5 billion during a high-impact enforcement operation at the Lagos Trade Fair market. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The operation, which focused on the cosmetics section of the market, was led by the Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, and exposed widespread violations of food and drug safety regulations.

According to NAFDAC, several warehouses and storage units were discovered to be stocked with cosmetics, food items, and other regulated goods that either lacked proper registration numbers, expiration dates, or labeling, or had already been banned by the Agency.

“Over a trailer-load of such products was evacuated, while another trailer carrying unregistered cosmetics was intercepted during the operation,” Dr. Iluyomade revealed.

In a dramatic turn, the driver of the intercepted trailer reportedly fled the scene, but the vehicle was secured by NAFDAC operatives, ensuring that the illegal products would not make their way into the market or reach unsuspecting consumers.

NAFDAC described the raid as one of the largest product seizures in recent months, further emphasizing the agency’s commitment to cracking down on unsafe consumer goods and ensuring public health safety.

“We are not relenting in our fight against fake, substandard, and dangerous products. These products pose serious risks to the health of Nigerians, and we urge the public to stay alert and report any suspicious goods,” Dr. Iluyomade added.

The agency stated that the enforcement exercise is part of its broader nationwide campaign to rid Nigerian markets of counterfeit and substandard products, particularly those that pose a direct threat to human health. This includes expired foods, harmful cosmetics, unregistered drugs, and improperly stored items.

The Lagos Trade Fair complex, known for being a hub of cross-border trade, especially in cosmetics and consumables, has been on NAFDAC’s radar for years due to repeated reports of regulatory violations. This latest bust, however, is being described as a “major breakthrough” in the ongoing war against product adulteration and illegal imports.

NAFDAC has urged market unions and traders to cooperate by refusing to sell or distribute unapproved products and by reporting shady suppliers. The agency also warned importers and warehouse operators to ensure compliance with NAFDAC regulations or face legal consequences, including seizure, prosecution, and shutdown of premises.

Consumers are also encouraged to check for NAFDAC numbers, manufacturing/expiry dates, and proper labeling before purchasing any regulated item, especially in large markets or open stalls.

As investigations continue, legal proceedings may be initiated against those linked to the seized goods. Meanwhile, the agency has reiterated its readiness to collaborate with other law enforcement bodies to ensure that Nigeria’s markets are free from harmful and unauthorized products.