The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has taken strong action against counterfeit goods by closing down one hundred and fifty shops in the popular Eziukwu Market in Aba, Abia State.


In a statement released on Wednesday, the agency said the operation took place over two days, on Monday and Tuesday. During this time, NAFDAC discovered fake and expired products worth five billion naira.


The uncovered items included beverages, carbonated drinks, wines, spirits, vegetable oils, and food products like noodles, powdered milk, and yoghurt that had been revalidated for sale. These fake and substandard goods posed a serious risk to public health, leading the agency to destroy the items.


NAFDAC described Eziukwu Market as a hub for counterfeit and substandard products. The South-East Zonal Director, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, expressed deep disappointment that illegal activities continued in the market, despite an agreement signed by market leaders in December twenty twenty-three to expose counterfeiters.


The agency’s Director General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, reaffirmed NAFDAC’s zero tolerance for counterfeit goods. She emphasized that the agency is fully committed to protecting public health and finding a permanent solution to the problem of fake and substandard products in the market.


This bold step by NAFDAC highlights the ongoing fight against counterfeit goods in Nigeria, with the agency determined to ensure that markets remain safe for consumers.