NAFDAC has shut down eight illegal rice shops and a warehouse in Nasarawa, confiscating over 1,600 bags of counterfeit rice valued at N5 billion. The counterfeit rice was repackaged into branded bags to deceive consumers. NAFDAC reassures the public of its commitment to food safety and market integrity.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has taken significant action to combat food fraud by shutting down eight illegal rice shops and a warehouse in Karu, Nasarawa State. Over 1,600 bags of counterfeit rice, valued at approximately N5 billion, were confiscated from markets in Wuse and Garki, Abuja during the operation. The counterfeit rice was being repackaged into branded bags to deceive consumers into believing they were purchasing premium products.
The operation was conducted in response to intelligence about the illegal activity by Kenneth Azikiwe, the head of NAFDAC's FCT directorate, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, ordered immediate action to ensure the availability of safe and quality food, particularly ahead of the festive season.
Azikiwe emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that counterfeiting is a serious crime that misleads consumers and undermines market integrity. The operation revealed that a woman was involved in the illegal repackaging of rice, at night in a warehouse located next to her residence. The repackaged rice was then moved to another warehouse for distribution.
NAFDAC reassured the public of its ongoing efforts to combat counterfeit food products and protect public health. The agency urged consumers to remain vigilant and emphasized its commitment to maintaining high food safety standards across Nigeria.
