The Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board (LITFCMB), has condemned the use of its facility for the production of counterfeit products and other illegal activities, warning that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.
The Board’s position follows the recent arrest of two persons allegedly linked to the illegal revalidation of expired drinks and the production of counterfeit consumable products within the complex.
In a statement, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of LITFCMB, Veronica Safiya Ndanusa, said the activities were inconsistent with the Board’s commitment to promoting genuine trade, ethical business practices and consumer safety.
Ndanusa disclosed that relevant authorities had commenced investigations into the incident to establish the facts and identify measures to prevent a recurrence.
She warned that the Board would not tolerate any activity capable of endangering public health, undermining legitimate businesses or damaging the reputation of the Trade Fair Complex.
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“As a body rooted in the principles of ethical business practices, transparency and genuine trade, we strongly condemn any activity that threatens public safety or brings the reputation of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board into disrepute,” she said.
She maintained that: “Our facility exists to provide a conducive environment for legitimate businesses to thrive, not to serve as a breeding ground for the production or distribution of counterfeit and substandard products”, she maintained
The LITFCMB Chief Executive Officer commended the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for its enforcement operation, assuring the public of the Board’s readiness to collaborate with relevant regulatory and law enforcement agencies to rid the complex of illegal activities.
According to her, the management remains committed to ensuring that the facility serves its intended purpose as a centre for legitimate commercial activities and business development.
She also urged traders, manufacturers and other business operators within the complex to comply with established regulations and maintain acceptable standards in their operations.
Ndanusa cautioned that: the pursuit of profit must not be allowed to compromise the health and safety of consumers, stressing the importance of responsible business practices in protecting public confidence in locally manufactured products.
She reiterated the Board’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex as a major commercial hub.
“The Board would continue to support legitimate enterprises while maintaining zero tolerance for activities that threaten public safety or undermine the credibility of genuine products,” she said.
She further emphasised the importance of cooperation among facility managers, regulatory agencies, law enforcement authorities and business operators in preventing the circulation of counterfeit and substandard goods.
The Board maintained that the Trade Fair Complex must remain an enabling environment for lawful businesses, investment and commerce, rather than a platform for activities that expose consumers to potential health risks.
