In a sweeping crackdown that underscores the growing threat of counterfeit goods in Nigeria’s supply chain, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has dismantled a sprawling illicit operation in the Alapere area of Ketu, Lagos, seizing fake chemicals, expired food flavours, unauthorized fertilizers, and repackaged pharmaceutical raw materials valued at over ₦1 billion.
The raid, conducted on Tuesday, led to the sealing of three warehouses and the arrest of three suspects linked to the illicit activities.
Director of NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, revealed that the intercepted materials pose a significant threat to public health and national security.
“We received credible intelligence about individuals posing as legitimate operators but who are, in fact, engaged in criminal activities that endanger lives,” he said.
According to Iluyomade, the main violation involved the sale and distribution of expired chemicals, some of which are precursor substances used in the manufacture of consumables.
“What is particularly alarming is that some of these additives—though originally food-grade—were expired and traced back to licensed importers. That raises serious concerns about how these materials ended up with unauthorized third parties,” he added.
NAFDAC confirmed that it has launched a full-scale investigation into the source, diversion, and distribution channels of the illegal substances, including the role of multinational companies in the supply chain.
On his part, Director of Chemical Evaluation and Control at NAFDAC,Dr. Leonard Omokpariola, said the agency discovered a stockpile of controlled and restricted chemicals at the scene.
“We found substances such as caustic soda, urea fertiliser, propylene glycol, and even active pharmaceutical ingredients like metronidazole benzoate,” he disclosed.
Investigators also discovered fake packaging materials with manipulated expiry dates, including labels falsely stating “Made in China” to mimic original products.
“This is even more dangerous than selling expired paracetamol,” Dr. Omokpariola warned. “At least with expired drugs, you can see the expiry date and avoid them. But when expired chemicals are used in manufacturing, the public has no way of knowing.”
NAFDAC says the operation is ongoing, and further arrests and sanctions may follow as investigations deepen.
