- The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has expressed serious concern about the growing presence of unsafe, counterfeit, and substandard products in Nigerian markets
- The Commission stressed that declining product standards are not just a consumer issue but an economic one, as unsafe goods reduce market efficiency
- FCCPC warned that the immediate impact of these failures is increased exposure of consumers to dangerous products
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has raised fresh concerns over the growing circulation of unsafe and substandard goods in Nigeria, warning that the trend is weakening consumer trust and threatening market stability.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, March 25, during the 2026 World Consumer Rights Day celebration and the 9th National Consumers Contest Awards, FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Tunji Bello, highlighted the urgent need to prioritise product safety across all sectors.
Delivering his remarks under the theme “Safe Products, Confident Consumers,” Bello stressed that declining product safety is already shaping consumer behaviour and weakening confidence in the market.
“We are gathered at a time when product safety has become central to market integrity, consumer confidence, and public welfare. The theme for this year’s celebration, Safe Products, Confident Consumers, captures a simple but important truth: where safety is uncertain, confidence declines.
“And where confidence declines, markets become weaker, less efficient, and less trustworthy. Across several sectors, the Commission continues to encounter products that do not meet basic safety and quality standards. These include improperly labelled goods, products that fall short of essential safety requirements, and, in some cases, conduct that raises concerns about misrepresentation,” he said.
Bello, who was represented by FCCPC’s Director of Surveillance and Investigation, Bola Adeyinka, revealed that the Commission continues to identify widespread violations across multiple sectors.
These include unsafe goods, misleading product claims, and poor labelling practices.
He attributed the problem to weak internal controls, poor compliance culture, and, in some cases, deliberate disregard for regulatory obligations.
“Some of these failures arise from weak internal controls. Others reflect gaps in compliance culture. In certain instances, there are indications of deliberate disregard for legal and regulatory obligations.
“The effect is immediate and serious. Consumers are exposed to avoidable risks, trust in the market is weakened, and law-abiding businesses are placed at a disadvantage. Product safety, therefore, cannot be treated as a secondary matter. It is a core obligation, with clear public interest consequences.
“This approach aligns with the Federal Government’s ongoing economic reform programme, which focuses on strengthening market integrity, improving consumer confidence and promoting a rules-based business environment,” Bello stated.
He further explained that unsafe markets discourage investment and distort fair competition.
“When markets are safe, reliable, and transparent, they support sustainable growth and give investors greater confidence to participate,” he added.
Bello warned that the Commission would intensify enforcement, stressing that product safety is a legal requirement under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018.
“Consumers are entitled to goods that are safe, durable, and fit for purpose. Businesses are under a duty to ensure that the products they place on the market consistently meet these standards.
“Where a product presents a risk, the law requires prompt corrective action, including withdrawal, recall, and proper notice to consumers. These are not optional expectations. They are statutory duties,” he said.
The FCCPC also disclosed that it has expanded market surveillance and strengthened product testing across key sectors, with enforcement actions taken where violations are confirmed.
To address systemic challenges, the Commission is strengthening collaboration with regulatory bodies such as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
According to Bello, these partnerships are focused on information sharing, coordinated enforcement, and closing regulatory gaps.
“Consumer protection is most effective when institutions work in concert. Effective outcomes depend on alignment in standards, consistency in enforcement, and clarity in institutional responsibilities.
“We are pleased to be joined today by the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria. Each plays an important role in ensuring that products meet acceptable standards before and after they enter the market. Effective outcomes depend on alignment in standards, consistency in enforcement, and clarity in institutional responsibilities,” he said.
Addressing concerns over rising prices, Bello clarified that the FCCPC does not regulate prices but remains committed to ensuring fairness in the marketplace.
He urged businesses to prioritise product safety at every stage of their operations, from sourcing to distribution.
“Product safety must be built into every stage of your operations, from sourcing and production to distribution and retail. It cannot be treated as an afterthought or as a matter to be addressed only after harm has occurred. Where defects or safety risks are identified, timely corrective action is required. Delay increases exposure, deepens consumer harm, and erodes trust.
“Failure to act responsibly will attract regulatory response. Compliance is not a favour to the regulator. It is a basic condition for participating in the market. To Nigerian consumers, remain informed, vigilant, and engaged. Ask questions. Examine products before purchase. Pay attention to labelling, quality, and safety information. Report concerns where they arise,” he said.
He also encouraged consumers to take an active role in protecting themselves and the market.
“Consumer protection is stronger when consumers are informed and active participants in the market.”
Bello further emphasised the importance of education and awareness, commending participants in the National Consumers Contest for promoting responsible consumption.
“Consumer protection is not only about enforcement. It is also about education, awareness, critical thinking, and responsible engagement,” he said.
Nigeria continues to face challenges with the influx of substandard and counterfeit goods across sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.
Regulatory agencies have consistently linked the issue to porous borders, weak enforcement, and low compliance levels.