The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) says it has received more than 11,100 consumer complaints since its establishment in March 2018 and has successfully resolved over 10,450 of them. About 430 cases are currently being processed, while around 200 have been referred to other relevant agencies.
General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, disclosed these figures during the agency’s inaugural Consumer Service Week and Award Ceremony held in Alausa, Ikeja. He said the agency has facilitated recoveries worth more than N530.26 million and over 14,901 US dollars for consumers across key sectors, including electricity, banking, healthcare, telecommunications, logistics, hospitality, insurance, food and beverages, oil and gas, and the automobile industry.
Solebo noted that LASCOPA has intensified enforcement operations in supermarkets, open markets, and retail outlets to remove expired and hazardous products from circulation, safeguarding public health and consumer confidence. “As Lagos continues to grow as a megacity and economic powerhouse, the agency remains committed to intensifying enforcement, embracing innovation, and deepening partnerships to meet emerging consumer challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace,” he said.
Beyond enforcement, the agency is expanding consumer education through partnerships with the National Youth Service Corps, schools, trade associations, market leaders, and community groups. These efforts aim to empower Lagos residents with the knowledge and confidence to assert their rights as consumers.
Highlighting the purpose of Consumer Service Week and the Consumer Appreciation and Award Day, Solebo said the events were designed to celebrate excellence, transparency, and fairness while recognising individuals, government bodies, businesses, civil society organisations, and the media for their roles in promoting consumer rights and fair trade practices. “Today, we are not only appreciating stakeholders but also reflecting on the remarkable progress we have made together in ensuring that Lagos remains a safe and fair marketplace for all,” he added.
Solebo urged for greater collaboration between the government, private sector, and consumers to build a marketplace where consumer rights are respected, businesses thrive on integrity, and residents enjoy safety, fairness, and value. “While we are proud of these milestones, we know there is still work to be done,” he said.
For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), LASCOPA’s efforts represent more than consumer protection; they help build trust and credibility in the marketplace. A fair and transparent business environment encourages customer loyalty, boosts sales, and supports sustainable growth, all critical for small businesses seeking to scale in Lagos’ dynamic economy.
The event was attended by top government officials, representatives of private organisations, stakeholders, partners, and consumers, all of whom commended LASCOPA for its progress and renewed its call for stronger collaboration in protecting consumer interests and promoting fair trade in the state.
