The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a makeshift factory in Lagos Island involved in the illegal production of counterfeit alcoholic beverages. Products worth an estimated ₦180 million were seized during the operation, marking another significant step in the agency’s ongoing battle against food and drug counterfeiting.
The Raid
Acting on intelligence, NAFDAC officials stormed the illicit facility, where they discovered large quantities of fake alcoholic beverages and production equipment. The factory, operating in unsanitary conditions, was manufacturing imitations of popular brands, deceiving consumers and posing significant public health risks.
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Dr. Mojisola Adeyeye, confirmed that the raid was part of the agency’s broader crackdown on counterfeit goods across Nigeria. She described the operation as a “major victory” in the fight to protect the health and safety of Nigerian consumers.
What Was Seized?
During the raid, officials seized a range of materials, including:
Large quantities of counterfeit branded alcoholic drinks.
Labels, bottle caps, and packaging materials mimicking legitimate brands.
Chemicals and ingredients of questionable origin used in production.
Equipment such as sealing machines and mixing tools.
The total value of the confiscated goods is estimated at ₦180 million.
Health Risks of Counterfeit Alcohol
Fake alcoholic beverages are often produced using harmful substances, including industrial alcohol and unsafe additives, which can lead to severe health consequences. Consumption of such products has been linked to:
Alcohol poisoning.
Liver and kidney damage.
Long-term health complications, including neurological issues.
NAFDAC warned consumers to remain vigilant when purchasing alcoholic beverages, urging them to verify the authenticity of products and report suspicious activities.
Legal Actions and Investigations
NAFDAC revealed that the operators of the factory were apprehended during the raid. They are currently in custody and will face prosecution under Nigerian law, which imposes severe penalties for producing and distributing counterfeit goods.
Dr. Adeyeye reiterated NAFDAC’s commitment to working with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those involved in such illegal activities are held accountable.
Combating Counterfeiting in Nigeria
Counterfeit goods remain a significant challenge in Nigeria’s consumer market. NAFDAC has intensified efforts to clamp down on fake food, drugs, and beverages through:
Increased surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Collaborative efforts with local and international regulatory bodies.
Public awareness campaigns to educate consumers on the dangers of counterfeit products.
Consumer Protection Tips
To avoid falling victim to counterfeit products, NAFDAC advises consumers to:
Purchase alcoholic beverages from trusted outlets.
Look out for signs of tampering or irregularities in packaging.
Verify product registration numbers on the NAFDAC website.
Subscribe to Follow Global Trends for daily global news.
Find Out How To Make Money As A Full Time Writer/Blogger Guide.
To Advertise, Advertise Your Affiliate Links on FollowGlobalTrends.com for Just $1 Per Link Per Month!
Related Articles
Governor Bala Mohammed Critiques Federal Government Reforms: “Nigerians Are Not Benefitting”
Tinubu and I Empathize with Nigerians, But Economic Reforms Are Inevitable — VP Shettima
President Tinubu Engages Nigerian Newspaper Owners, Promises Press Freedom and Economic Reforms
NDLEA Responds to Senator Ashiru’s Accusations: Claims of Vendetta
Written By Fortune Davidson