The Zonal Coordinator of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for the South East zone, which includes Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Abia, and Ebonyi States, Mrs. Francisca Obialor highlighted the significance of consumer rights and healthy living in her recent speech during the World Consumer Rights Day celebration in Awka, Anambra State.
In an interview with Voice of Nigeria, she highlighted the day’s significance: “the essence of this observance is to raise public awareness about the rights and responsibilities of consumers worldwide.”
She noted that the theme for March 15, 2025 is “A just transition to sustainable lifestyles,” addressing critical global issues such as pollution, biodiversity loss, environmental degradation, climate change, and health crisis.”
This is a pivotal moment for a wake-up call,” Mrs. Obialor stated, urging collective action to promote sustainable practices among consumers globally.
She elaborated on the concept of sustainable living, which emphasises understanding the impact of lifestyle choices on the environment.
According to Mrs Obialor, sustainable lifestyle choices are essential to mitigate environmental degradation, reduce carbon emissions, and promote equitable socio-economic development.
“Our everyday decisions, what we eat, how we manage waste, how we commute, and how we utilize appliances, are all interconnected with the natural environment,” she explained. ”
The sustainable and healthy choices we make today will benefit future generations.”
To assist consumers in making sustainable lifestyle choices, Mrs. Obialor offered several recommendations:
1.Mind What You Eat: Choose locally produced foods and adopt plant-based diets to combat biodiversity loss. Support eco-friendly products by checking sustainability labels on packaging, and consider Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance, USDA Organic, and organic certification labels for responsible consumption.
2. Reduce Waste: Practice smart shopping to minimise waste and plan purchases wisely.
3. Limit Fossil Fuel Usage: The transport sector accounts for 23 percent of global energy-related carbon dioxide emissions. Opt for public transport, bicycles, or walking, which also promote personal health.4. Conserve Energy: Reduce electricity use at home to lower both carbon emissions and bills. Simple actions, like turning off lights and using LED bulbs, can make a significant difference. Solar power is also a viable alternative.
5. Support Ethical Businesses: Consumers are encouraged to demand transparency and fair trade in all business transactions.
6. Fair Pricing Matters: Stand against price gouging and deceptive practices.
One of FCCPC’s primary roles is to assist aggrieved consumers seeking redress related to goods and services through negotiation, mediation, and conciliation.
Obialor urged manufacturers to adhere strictly to good manufacturing practices, ensuring that products are handled properly to maintain their quality post-production.
Furthermore, she encouraged consumers to report unfair business practices and any complaints to the FCCPC’s South East zonal office, located at No. 6 Pete Ibida Street, opposite Anambra State Government House, Awka, Anambra State.
She added that consumers can also reach out via email at southeast@fccpc.gov.ng or by phone at 08034124060. Follow the FCCPC on X, formally Twitter at @FCCPCNigeria and on Facebook at FCCPC Awka for updates and information.
Mrs Obialor concluded by stressing the necessity for consumers to be aware of their rights while advocating for sustainable choices that could significantly impact their well-being and the environment.
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