The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has said that cosmetics, food, and beverages account for more than half of counterfeit products seized across Nigeria.
The Director-General of the agency, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, gave the update at a briefing for the 2026 International Anti-Counterfeit Month, where she was represented by Dr. Martins Iluyomade.
She said the data came from enforcement operations carried out nationwide.
According to her, fake medicines with little, wrong, or no active ingredients are also commonly intercepted during raids and inspections.
NAFDAC explained that cosmetics remain the most targeted category for counterfeiters, followed by food and beverages.
Together, these products make up over 50 percent of all seized fake goods, while pharmaceuticals also form a large part of enforcement cases.
The agency warned that those involved in counterfeiting are now using more advanced methods to avoid detection.
It noted that online ordering systems are being used to bring fake goods into the country, while shared container shipping, known as groupage, makes tracking shipments more difficult.
It added that some individuals can now order fake products online and receive them directly through delivery services without physical contact with suppliers.
NAFDAC also raised concern that fake packaging is becoming increasingly similar to genuine brands, making it harder for consumers and regulators to identify original products.
To address the problem, the agency said it is working with the Nigeria Customs Service and other security and regulatory bodies to improve monitoring and enforcement.
It also said the judiciary has supported the fight through faster trials, including cases that have led to long prison sentences.
The agency advised Nigerians to buy products only from approved outlets, use verification tools where available, and report suspected counterfeit goods to the appropriate authorities.
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