The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raided a plaza at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo, Lagos, where it says a network of illegal stores was repackaging and relabelling alcoholic drinks and energy drinks. The operation took place on October 13, 2026.
Officials reported finding materials and equipment used to refill bottles, print labels and alter expiry dates on products imitating well-known wine, whisky, tequila and energy drink brands. More than 20 stores were reportedly involved, two suspects were arrested, and products with an estimated value of over N2 billion were seized.
Why counterfeit drinks are dangerous
Fake or tampered alcohol can contain unsafe substances, including industrial alcohol, which may cause serious illness. Expired energy drinks that have been relabelled can also pose health risks. Beyond safety, counterfeit goods hurt legitimate manufacturers and distributors and reduce government revenue.
Key points
- Location: a plaza at the Trade Fair Complex, Ojo, Lagos.
- Date: October 13, 2026.
- Findings: equipment for refilling, relabelling and changing expiry dates.
- Scale: over 20 stores; goods valued above N2 billion seized.
- Arrests: two suspects in custody.
How to protect yourself
- Buy drinks from reputable supermarkets, bars and licensed distributors.
- Check that caps and seals are intact and labels are properly aligned and printed.
- Look for a NAFDAC registration number and a clear, untampered expiry date.
- Be cautious about prices that are far below the usual market rate.
- Report suspicious products to NAFDAC through its official channels.
Background
The Trade Fair Complex in Ojo is one of the largest wholesale markets in West Africa, drawing traders from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries. Its size and the volume of goods passing through make monitoring difficult, which is why regulators periodically carry out targeted enforcement operations there.
The agency said investigations are continuing and that suspects would be charged in court once inquiries are completed. With the festive season approaching, when demand for drinks rises, consumer advocates are urging extra vigilance.
Photo: Unsplash (illustrative).
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