The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has expressed renewed concern over the increasing circulation of unsafe and substandard goods in Nigeria’s markets, warning that the trend erodes consumer confidence and compromises market integrity.
Speaking at the 2026 World Consumer Rights Day commemoration in Abuja, the Commission’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, stressed that product safety is critical to sustaining consumer trust and ensuring market stability.
Bello, who was represented by the director of surveillance and investigation, Boladale Adeyinka, stressed that this year’s theme, “Safe Products, Confident Consumers”, reflects the direct link between safety and trust.
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According to her, “Where safety is uncertain, confidence declines. And where confidence declines, markets become weaker, less efficient, and less trustworthy.”
Mrs Adeyinka disclosed that the Commission continues to encounter products that fail to meet basic safety and quality standards, including improperly labelled goods, products that fall short of essential safety requirements, and, in some cases, conduct that raises concerns about misrepresentation.
She disclosed that these lapses stem from weak compliance systems and, in some cases, deliberate disregard for regulations.
Adeyinka stated, “Consumers face avoidable risks, market trust diminishes, and law-abiding businesses suffer disadvantages.”
She stressed that product safety is a legal obligation, not a choice.
“These are not optional expectations. They are statutory duties. Non-compliance attracts regulatory consequences.”
Highlighting regulatory actions, Mrs. Adeyinka revealed that the commission had intensified market surveillance, strengthened product testing, and enhanced collaboration with agencies such as the Standards Organization of Nigeria and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control to curb the influx of unsafe goods.
Clarifying its role, she stated that the commission does not control prices. However, fair pricing is an essential part of a well-functioning market.
The agency further called on manufacturers, importers, and service providers to integrate safety into all stages of production and distribution.
Adeyinka warned consumers to be vigilant.
“Ask questions and examine products before purchase. Pay attention to labelling, quality, and safety information. Report concerns where they arise,” she advised.
The event also featured the 9th National Young Consumers Contest Awards, aimed at promoting consumer awareness among youths.
She noted that consumer protection goes beyond enforcement to include education and informed participation.
The FCCPC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safer markets, stressing that “safe and reliable markets depend on responsible business conduct, effective regulation, and informed consumer participation.”