Lagos Trade Fair Board Backs NAFDAC Crackdown on Counterfeit Products

The Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board (LITFCMB) has thrown its weight behind the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in its crackdown on counterfeit products, warning traders and business operators against using the complex for illegal activities that threaten public health.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Board, Veronica Safiya Ndanusa, condemned the use of the facility for the illegal revalidation of expired drinks and the production of counterfeit consumables. Her reaction followed the recent arrest of two persons allegedly connected to the activities.

Ndanusa disclosed that relevant authorities had commenced investigations to establish the facts surrounding the incident and identify measures to prevent a recurrence.

She warned that individuals and businesses found culpable of engaging in activities that jeopardise public health or undermine the integrity of local manufacturing would face the full weight of the law.

"As a body rooted in the principles of ethical business practices, transparency and genuine trade, we strongly condemn any activity that threatens public safety or brings the reputation of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board into disrepute. Our facility exists to provide a conducive environment for legitimate businesses to thrive, not to serve as a breeding ground for the production or distribution of counterfeit and substandard products," Ndanusa stated.

The LITFCMB chief executive commended NAFDAC for its enforcement operation and assured the public that the Board would continue to collaborate with relevant regulatory and law enforcement agencies to rid the complex of illegal activities.

She also urged traders and business operators within the facility to comply with established standards, stressing that the pursuit of profit must never come at the expense of consumers' health and safety.

The Board reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex as a leading commercial hub, pledging continued support for legitimate enterprises and a zero-tolerance approach to activities that undermine public confidence in locally manufactured products.

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