NAFDAC Discovers Over 20 Illegal Stores in Lagos, Seizes Fake Drinks Worth ₦2bn

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a suspected counterfeit alcoholic beverage operation at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, recovering products valued at more than ₦2 billion.

The operation, conducted by the agency’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday, October 13, followed intelligence reports about suspected illegal activities within the commercial complex.

According to the agency, its operatives discovered more than 20 illegal stores allegedly used to produce fake alcoholic drinks, alter the validity information on expired beverages and store prohibited imported products for distribution.

NAFDAC said some suspects were allegedly caught blending counterfeit versions of popular alcoholic drink brands and preparing expired or unsafe beverages for resale.

Two suspects were arrested during the operation, while the recovered products were evacuated from the premises.

Public Health Concerns

The discovery has raised fresh concerns about the circulation of counterfeit alcoholic beverages and the potential danger to consumers who may unknowingly purchase them.

Products sold under the names of established brands but containing unverified ingredients could expose consumers to serious health risks.

The agency warned Nigerians against the production, distribution and sale of fake, expired or unsafe beverages, stressing the importance of public cooperation in tackling the illegal trade.

NAFDAC urged members of the public to report suspected cases of counterfeit production, the alteration of expired products and the sale of unsafe drinks.

Consumers can contact the agency through its official complaints line on 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322).

Another Crackdown on Illegal Alcohol Sales

The latest seizure comes amid intensified enforcement against prohibited alcoholic beverages in Lagos State.

Earlier in October, NAFDAC carried out another operation in which alcoholic drinks valued at an estimated ₦300 million were seized. The products included drinks packaged in sachets and small plastic bottles below 200 millilitres, which were targeted under the agency’s restrictions.

Distributors and retailers were also apprehended during the enforcement exercise.

The successive operations form part of efforts to prevent prohibited and potentially harmful beverages from reaching consumers.

NAFDAC has continued to urge traders to comply with relevant regulations and warned that those involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit products could face legal consequences.

The agency’s latest intervention underscores the need for stronger market surveillance and greater public awareness to protect Nigerians from unsafe consumer products.