The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confiscated banned, expired, and unregistered products valued at over ₦1.5 billion during a recent enforcement raid at the Lagos Trade Fair Market, raising fresh concerns about consumer safety and regulatory compliance among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The raid, which targeted the cosmetics section of the market, was led by NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement. The agency disclosed via its official X handle that several warehouses were uncovered, stocked with unregistered cosmetics and food products lacking expiry dates and proper labeling. One trailer load of such goods was evacuated, while another trailer containing cosmetics was intercepted. A driver reportedly fled during the operation, though his vehicle was secured by officials.
NAFDAC said the enforcement was based on credible intelligence pointing to the distribution of unsafe products and is part of a broader nationwide campaign to rid markets of dangerous goods that threaten public health.
While the agency’s actions are focused on protecting consumers, the crackdown also sends a strong signal to business owners—especially small traders, distributors, and informal retailers—about the risks of operating outside regulatory standards. Many MSMEs in the beauty, food, and wellness sectors often face pressure to cut costs by sourcing unregistered or cheaper alternatives, but this practice can now lead to business closures, confiscations, or even legal consequences.
According to NAFDAC, the confiscated items pose a significant threat to health, and investigations are ongoing to identify and prosecute those involved. The agency has warned traders and importers to stop stocking or selling products that are expired or not properly registered, noting that all goods must meet approved safety and labeling standards.
This operation follows a similar raid in the Alapere area of Ketu, where the agency uncovered illegal sales of expired food additives, counterfeit chemicals, and improperly repackaged pharmaceutical raw materials.
For MSMEs operating in Nigeria’s vast informal markets, these repeated crackdowns underline the urgent need for regulatory awareness and due diligence in sourcing and selling consumer products. NAFDAC has reaffirmed its commitment to routine monitoring and enforcement to ensure that only safe, approved goods reach the Nigerian public.
As enforcement efforts continue, small businesses are being urged to prioritise compliance to avoid losses and contribute to a healthier, more trusted marketplace.
