THE RISE OF COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS IN NIGERIA!!

Four days ago, which was on 24th February 2026, NAFDAC uncovers a warehouse with banned and fake cosmetics worth over N3billion in Lagos. The commonness of counterfeit products and drinks in Nigeria has become a major public health and economic concern. These fake goods can be everyday household items to consumable products, which includes beverages, alcoholic drinks, pharmaceuticals, and packaged/canned foods.

If we should ask around or interview people, I’m sure a lot of people will speak on how they have unknowingly purchased counterfeits on various occasions. For example, we have had people who go to the club complain about how most of the drinks they consume there are fake and how they end up at the hospital because of the fake drinks they consumed at the club.

I personally have had an experience where I unknowingly bought a fake soap, and I had to spend money at the hospital to run tests because I thought I ate something bad which was causing an allergy, but I was informed that I had probably used something on my skin which made me have serious breakouts and then I realized it was the soap I bought and used.

It is very important to note that the rise of fake products and drinks presents serious threats such as,

1. Health Risks: The consumption of fake drinks and products can lead to poisoning and long-term health issues such as Kidney failure, Liver diseases etc.

2. Economic Losses: The rise of fake products makes legitimate manufacturers lose revenue due to competition from counterfeits. Also, consumers waste money on products that provides no value.

3. Damage to Brand Reputation: The rise of fake products could lead to trusted brands suffering the loss of customers confidence when the fake versions circulate the market.

In order to reduce the commonness of fake products and drinks in the nation, Government should be able to enhance the capacity of agencies like National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to monitor, inspect, and sanction offenders. Public awareness should also be improved through the launch of nationwide campaigns, to educate consumers on identifying fake products. Brands should also use innovative authentication like Scratch codes to check whether a product is real or fake.

However, tackling the high rate of fake products in the nation requires collective efforts and effective strategies, which makes it possible to reduce the menace of counterfeit/fake goods and to also protect consumers and legitimate businesses.

So, I suggest we all come together as one to fight this pandemic of fake products in our dear country.