Delta State, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has intercepted suspected counterfeit cosmetics and other regulated products during an enforcement sweep at the Igbudu Market in Warri, Delta State
According to the agency, the raid was initiated following intelligence warnings regarding the widespread circulation of fake regulated merchandise within the market.
An official statement released on Saturday indicated that the operation was led by operatives from the Asaba Zonal Office, backed by personnel from the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services, and local market union leadership.
The enforcement team targeted specific shops and locations, identifying and confiscating the suspected counterfeit items.
The statement said, “NAFDAC conducted an enforcement operation at Igbudu Market, Warri, Delta State, after intelligence reports indicated a proliferation of counterfeit regulated products in the market.
“The operation, led by officers of NAFDAC’s Asaba Zonal Office, was supported by the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army and the market union. The team visited identified shops and locations, where counterfeit products were discovered and evacuated.”
The seized items included cosmetics bearing the Listerine and Nivea brands.
Furthermore, NAFDAC issued a public warning against purchasing circulating stocks of KY Jelly lubricant, noting that the product’s marketing authorization holders confirmed the final authorized batch was manufactured over five years ago.
The agency stated that any units currently available in the marketplace must be treated as suspicious due to the elapsed timeframe since the last approved supply.
Additionally, NAFDAC refuted social media rumors alleging that its enforcement personnel were assaulted or forced out of the market during the operation.
Backstory…
NAFDAC’s latest operation comes amid growing public criticism of the agency over the increasing circulation of suspected counterfeit, adulterated and substandard products in Nigerian markets.
In September 2026, Nigerians raised concerns on social media over allegedly fake food, drinks, medicines, cosmetics and everyday household products, questioning how such goods continued to reach consumers despite the regulatory agency’s mandate to protect public health.
The backlash intensified as consumers shared videos and accounts of suspected fake toothpaste, yoghurt, palm oil, beverages and other products, prompting calls for stronger market surveillance, tougher sanctions and greater accountability from NAFDAC and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).
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