The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered an alleged large-scale counterfeit alcoholic beverage operation at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, seizing products valued at more than ₦2 billion.
The operation, carried out on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, by the agency’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, followed what NAFDAC described as credible intelligence about illegal activities within the complex. More than 20 illegal stores were reportedly discovered during the raid at Zamfara Plaza, BBA Trade Fair Complex, along the Badagry Expressway in Ojo, Lagos State.
According to the agency, the suspected operation was concealed inside makeshift stores reportedly used as parking spaces. Its operatives allegedly found individuals blending and counterfeiting popular alcoholic beverage brands, revalidating expired or unsafe drinks for resale, and stockpiling banned imported products.
NAFDAC said two suspects were apprehended during the enforcement exercise, while the products seized and evacuated from the premises were valued at more than ₦2 billion. The agency has not, in the reports reviewed, provided a detailed breakdown of the seized products or their individual brands. <Cite refs={[“turn592224search5″,”turn592224search6”]}/>
The discovery has raised concerns about the potential dangers consumers face when counterfeit or improperly handled alcoholic beverages enter the market. Drinks that have expired, been adulterated or been repackaged under false labels may expose consumers to substances and ingredients that have not been properly verified for safety.
In a report from the scene, Nigeria Info FM described the discovery of equipment and materials allegedly used in producing counterfeit spirits, including drums, filters, packaging materials, bottle corks and other items. The broadcaster also quoted a NAFDAC enforcement official who said the operation was intended to protect consumers from potentially dangerous products. <Cite refs={[“turn592224search8”]}/>
The latest raid forms part of NAFDAC’s enforcement efforts against the production and distribution of counterfeit and unsafe regulated products. In its public notice, the agency urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious manufacturing activities, the revalidation of expired products or the sale of potentially unsafe beverages.
Members of the public can report suspected violations through NAFDAC’s complaints line, 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322), according to the agency’s statement published by Channels Television.
Although the seized products have been valued at more than ₦2 billion, the reported arrests and seizure do not by themselves establish the guilt of the suspects. Further investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings will determine responsibility for the alleged activities.
The agency’s findings serve as a reminder for consumers to buy alcoholic beverages from reputable sellers, examine packaging and seals carefully, and report products suspected of being counterfeit or tampered with.
