The management of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex has pledged zero tolerance for counterfeit drinks and other illegal commercial activities following the discovery of a suspected fake beverage operation by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The agency’s enforcement team uncovered the suspected operation at Zamfara Plaza, BBA Trade Fair Complex, along the Badagry Expressway in Ojo, Lagos, where two suspects were arrested over the alleged production and repackaging of counterfeit alcoholic and energy drinks.
The raid reportedly uncovered equipment and materials suspected to have been used to refill bottles, repackage drinks and revalidate expired products for sale. NAFDAC said its operatives also discovered more than 20 illegal stores allegedly involved in counterfeiting alcoholic beverages, revalidating expired or unsafe drinks and storing prohibited imported products. The agency valued the seized and evacuated products at more than ₦2 billion.
The discovery has renewed concerns about consumer safety and the need for stricter monitoring of businesses operating within major commercial centres. Counterfeit or adulterated beverages can expose consumers to potentially serious health risks, particularly when products are sold in packaging designed to resemble trusted brands.
The Trade Fair Complex management’s position signals support for NAFDAC’s enforcement efforts and a warning to traders that commercial activity must comply with relevant laws and product safety requirements.
NAFDAC said investigations would continue to establish the source of the materials used in the suspected operation and identify anyone who may have financed or directed the activities. The agency also urged members of the public to report suspected counterfeit production and sales to its enforcement teams.
The two arrested suspects remain subjects of investigation, and the allegations against them have yet to be determined by a court.