NAFDAC confiscates fake products worth over ₦5 bn, seals market in Aba

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched a renewed operation aimed at dismantling one of Africa’s largest counterfeit beverage markets, sealing off the notorious Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years.

In the statement signed by the agency ‘s boss, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the operation, which has been described as the most aggressive in the market’s history, led to the confiscation of fake food and beverages estimated to be worth over ₦5 billion.

The Cemetery Market, long regarded as a haven for counterfeiters, was found to be producing a wide range of substandard alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Among the most counterfeit products discovered were well-known brands such as Seaman Schnapps, Hennessy, Carlo Rossi, Smirnoff, and Fanta.

NAFDAC’s action comes as part of an ongoing effort to curb the circulation of dangerous fake products that threaten public health.

A combined force of NAFDAC officials, the Nigerian military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police carried out the extensive raid, which involved sealing off specific market zones and locking access gates.

The operation also follows a similar crackdown in December 2023.

During the operation, over 240 shops masquerading as factories were raided, where counterfeit beverages were being produced under extremely unhygienic conditions.

The shops were found using water from unsanitary sources, harmful chemicals, and recycled packaging materials to produce their products. Notably, alcoholic beverages were adulterated with cheaper sugar and starch alternatives, as well as other harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption.

More than 1,500 cartons of counterfeit products were destroyed during the operation, with an estimated street value of ₦750 million in 2023.

The most recent operation, conducted in December 2024, led to the seizure of additional fake goods valued at ₦5 billion.

The seized products included a variety of soft drinks like Coca-Cola, Schweppes, Lacasera, and energy drinks, as well as fake milk and chocolate drink products like Peak Sachet Milk and Miksi Sachet Milk.

In a related development, NAFDAC officials uncovered three major warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt for revalidation on January 22, 2025.

NAFDAC’s effort has been greatly supported by the government of Abia State, led by Governor Alex Otti, as well as other local stakeholders, including the Mayor of Aba South.

NAFDAC has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected counterfeit products to the nearest NAFDAC office, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the health of Nigerians.