The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has raised worries over the growing circulation of unsafe and substandard goods in the Nigerian markets, warning that the trend is eroding consumer confidence and threatening the country’s economic stability.
The warning was issued by FCCPC’s Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Tunji Bello, during the 2026 World Consumer Rights Day celebration and the 9th National Consumers Contest Awards in Abuja on Wednesday.
The event was themed “Safe Products, Confident Consumers.”
Bello highlighted that uncertainty around product safety is negatively affecting market behavior and trust.
“Where safety is uncertain, confidence declines, markets weaken, and efficiency suffers.
“Across multiple sectors, we continue to encounter products that fail basic safety and quality standards, including improperly labelled goods, unsafe items, and misrepresentation by some manufacturers and distributors,” he said.
Represented at the event by FCCPC’s Director of Surveillance and Investigation, Bola Adeyinka, Bello explained that the surge in unsafe products stems from weak internal controls, poor compliance culture, and in some cases, deliberate disregard for regulatory obligations.
Linking product safety to broader economic health, Bello said unsafe markets discourage participation, distort competition, and reduce investor confidence.
“Consumers face avoidable risks, trust is undermined, and law-abiding businesses are disadvantaged.
“Product safety is a core obligation with serious public interest consequences,” he stressed.
Under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, Bello noted, businesses are legally obliged to ensure products are safe, durable, and fit for purpose.
Unsafe products require immediate corrective action, including withdrawal, recall, and notification to consumers.
To strengthen enforcement, the FCCPC has expanded market surveillance and product testing in critical sectors.
The Commission is also deepening collaboration with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria to ensure consistent standards and coordinated interventions.
While the Commission does not regulate prices, Bello emphasized that fair pricing is essential for market functionality.
“We will act against practices that undermine fairness, transparency, or consumer safety,” he added.
Bello urged businesses to integrate product safety at every stage—from sourcing and production to distribution and retail—and warned that delays in addressing safety risks would attract regulatory action.
He also called on consumers to remain vigilant, examine products carefully, and report concerns to safeguard market integrity.
Highlighting the importance of awareness, Bello commended participants of the National Consumers Contest, noting that education and responsible engagement are crucial for building a culture of safe consumption.
Nigeria has long struggled with counterfeit and substandard goods, particularly in food, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and household products. Porous borders, weak enforcement, and low compliance have been cited as key drivers.
With its renewed focus, the FCCPC signals a tougher regulatory stance to restore trust in Nigeria’s markets through stricter compliance, effective enforcement, and active participation from both businesses and consumers.
“Safe and reliable markets depend on responsible business conduct, effective regulation, and informed consumer participation. That standard must be upheld consistently,” Bello concluded.
