NAFDAC Uncovers Fake Alcohol Operation in Lagos, Seizes Products Worth Over ₦2 Billion.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a suspected large-scale counterfeit alcoholic beverage operation at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, seizing products valued at more than ₦2 billion.

The operation was carried out on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, by NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate following intelligence reports about suspected illegal activities at Zamfara Plaza, within the BBA section of the Trade Fair Complex along the Lagos Badagry Expressway in Ojo, Lagos State.

According to the agency, its operatives discovered more than 20 illegal stores allegedly involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit alcoholic beverages, the revalidation of expired drinks for resale and the storage of prohibited imported products.

NAFDAC said suspects were allegedly caught blending counterfeit versions of popular alcoholic beverage brands and preparing expired or unsafe drinks for possible redistribution to unsuspecting consumers.

Two suspects were arrested during the operation, while the products seized and evacuated from the premises were valued at more than ₦2 billion.

The agency warned that counterfeit and adulterated alcoholic beverages could pose serious health risks, particularly when products are improperly manufactured, contaminated or falsely presented as genuine brands.

The development has renewed concerns about the circulation of counterfeit consumer products in Nigeria and the potential dangers posed by illegal manufacturing and the resale of expired beverages.

Trade Fair Management Reacts

The management of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board has condemned the alleged activities, describing the use of its facilities for counterfeit production as contrary to the complex’s purpose of supporting legitimate commercial operations.

The board’s Chief Executive Officer, Veronica Safiya Ndanusa, said management would cooperate with regulatory and law enforcement agencies to prevent the facility from being used for unlawful manufacturing and distribution activities.

She also urged traders and business operators to comply with relevant regulations, stressing that commercial activities must not endanger public health or undermine consumer confidence.

NAFDAC Urges Public Vigilance

NAFDAC has urged Nigerians to remain vigilant when purchasing regulated products and to report suspicious manufacturing, the alteration of expiry dates and the sale of potentially unsafe beverages.

Consumers are advised to buy products from reputable outlets, inspect packaging and expiry dates carefully, and avoid beverages whose authenticity or safety cannot be established.

The agency said members of the public could report suspected violations through its official complaints line: 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322).

Investigations into the alleged operation are ongoing. The arrests and allegations do not, by themselves, establish the criminal liability of the suspects.

The latest operation underscores the importance of effective regulatory enforcement and public cooperation in protecting consumers from counterfeit and potentially dangerous products.