FCCPC substandard goods warning highlights risks of unsafe products and vows stricter enforcement to protect consumers in Nigeria

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, led by its Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, has raised alarm over the growing presence of unsafe and substandard products in Nigerian markets, warning that the trend is eroding consumer trust and weakening economic integrity.

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Tunji Bello issued the FCCPC substandard goods warning on Wednesday in Abuja during the commemoration of World Consumer Rights Day 2026 and the 9th National Consumers Contest Awards, where he highlighted the increasing uncertainty surrounding product safety across multiple sectors.

Represented by the Commission’s Director of Surveillance and Investigation, Bola Adeyinka, Tunji Bello said the proliferation of poorly labelled and unsafe goods reflects deeper systemic challenges, including weak compliance culture, inadequate internal controls, and, in some cases, deliberate disregard for regulatory obligations.

He stressed that the consequences are immediate and far-reaching, exposing consumers to avoidable risks while placing compliant businesses at a disadvantage.

The FCCPC substandard goods warning also underscored how declining confidence can weaken markets and reduce overall economic efficiency.

Tunji Bello linked product safety directly to investor confidence and sustainable growth, noting that unsafe markets discourage participation and distort competition.

He described the situation as a serious threat to market stability, insisting that product safety must be treated as a core legal obligation rather than an afterthought.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to strict enforcement under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, warning that products posing risks must be withdrawn or recalled promptly, with proper notification to consumers.

To strengthen oversight, the agency said it has expanded market surveillance and intensified product testing, while deepening collaboration with key regulators such as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control to close regulatory gaps and ensure consistent enforcement.

Tunji Bello also clarified that while the Commission does not regulate prices, it remains focused on tackling unfair practices that harm consumers or undermine transparency.

He urged manufacturers, importers, and service providers to prioritise safety at every stage of production and distribution, warning that failure to comply would attract regulatory sanctions.

Consumers were also encouraged to remain vigilant, examine products carefully, and report concerns where necessary.

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Analysts say the renewed enforcement drive signals a tougher stance by regulators as Nigeria confronts the persistent challenge of counterfeit and substandard goods, particularly in critical sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.