The NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) disclosed the findings following an enforcement operation at Zamfara Plaza, BBA Trade Fair Complex, along the Lagos–Badagry Expressway on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
According to the agency’s official statement, its Investigation and Enforcement Directorate discovered the suspected operation after receiving intelligence about illegal activities within the complex.
What did NAFDAC discover?
The agency said its officers uncovered more than 20 illegal stores concealed within makeshift parking spaces.
Operatives reportedly found counterfeit versions of popular alcoholic beverage brands, expired energy drinks and other beverages being prepared for resale.
NAFDAC also discovered banned imported products and materials suspected to be connected to the counterfeiting operation.
The agency’s footage showed several drinks, containers and packaging materials recovered during the raid.
Two suspects were arrested, while the seized products, valued by NAFDAC at more than ₦2 billion, were evacuated from the premises.
Why the discovery raises public health concerns
Counterfeit and expired beverages can pose serious health risks because consumers cannot reliably establish their contents, quality or storage conditions.
NAFDAC’s findings are particularly concerning because some of the products allegedly carried familiar brand identities, making them potentially difficult for unsuspecting buyers to identify.
An official speaking in footage released by the agency alleged that some of the products were supplied through bars and nightclubs.
However, NAFDAC has not publicly established how many affected products reached consumers or whether any illnesses have been directly linked to the operation.
What happens next?
The agency said the operation formed part of its efforts to remove counterfeit and unsafe products from the Nigerian market.
It has not announced the identities of the two suspects or confirmed whether formal charges have been filed.
NAFDAC urged members of the public to report suspicious manufacturing, product relabelling and the sale of potentially unsafe beverages through its official complaints line, 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-e1-623322).
What this means for Nigerians
The discovery raises questions about how counterfeit products enter legitimate retail and hospitality businesses without being detected.
For consumers, familiar packaging or a recognised brand name may not always guarantee that a product is genuine.
Beyond the ₦2 billion seizure, the important issue is whether regulators can identify the wider distribution network and prevent unsafe products from reaching more Nigerians.
