The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a suspected counterfeit beverage operation at the BBA Trade Fair Complex in Lagos State, resulting in the arrest of two suspects.
In a post on X on Tuesday, the agency identified the location as Zamfara Plaza within the complex. It alleged that the individuals were involved in revalidating energy drinks, wines and whisky brands.
Footage released by NAFDAC showed numerous blue cans of Bullet energy drink stacked in a storage area, alongside loose cans and cardboard cartons. A large blue plastic barrel containing discarded materials was also visible, with two men seated on the floor against a wall.
Other items found at the premises included empty alcoholic beverage bottles, corks, bottle caps, labels and various packaging materials scattered across the floor or kept in boxes and bags. A bottle of Martell cognac was also visible among the items, alongside plastic bags containing seals, caps and printed labels.
NAFDAC said the two suspects were arrested over their alleged involvement in the revalidation of energy drinks, wines and whisky brands.
The operation underscores concerns about the circulation of counterfeit and substandard beverages in Nigeria, particularly products allegedly repackaged or relabelled without appropriate regulatory oversight. Such activities raise questions about product authenticity and consumer safety.
NAFDAC is mandated to regulate the manufacture, importation, exportation, distribution, advertisement, sale and use of food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals and packaged water in Nigeria, among other regulated products.
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