NAFDAC Warns Against Importation and Sale of Prohibited Food Items in Nigeria
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised a strong warning over the increasing smuggling, sale, and distribution of prohibited food items in Nigerian markets. The agency said several regulated food products are being illegally imported and sold despite being clearly banned by the Federal Government.
In a statement released in Abuja and signed by the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, the agency revealed that products such as pasta, noodles, sugar, and tomato paste are currently being found in markets across the country. According to NAFDAC, these products are listed on the Federal Government’s Customs Prohibition List and are not allowed into Nigeria.
NAFDAC explained that the importation and circulation of these banned food items violate national trade laws and seriously undermine Nigeria’s food control system. The agency stressed that the products have not undergone mandatory safety checks and quality assurance processes required before any food item can be sold to consumers.
The statement warned that the consumption of such products could pose serious public health risks, as their safety, quality, and production standards cannot be guaranteed. NAFDAC added that allowing these prohibited items into the Nigerian market weakens regulatory efforts to protect consumers from unsafe food.
As part of its response, NAFDAC directed all importers, supermarket operators, open market traders, distributors, and other stakeholders in the food supply chain to immediately stop the importation, sale, and distribution of all food products listed on the Customs Prohibition List. The agency said compliance with this directive is mandatory.
NAFDAC further warned that anyone found violating the order would face strict enforcement actions. These include the seizure and destruction of prohibited goods, suspension or revocation of operational licences, and prosecution in line with existing laws and regulations.
The agency also advised stakeholders to communicate this directive across their supply chains and ensure that all business partners discontinue any transactions involving banned food items. According to NAFDAC, ignorance of the law will not be accepted as an excuse.
In addition, NAFDAC called on other government agencies to strengthen collaboration in enforcing the ban. These agencies include the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigerian Shippers Council, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service.
NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the health of Nigerians and maintaining strict regulatory standards in the food sector. The agency urged all stakeholders to cooperate fully with its efforts and report any suspicious activities related to banned food products.
The agency also encouraged the public and industry players to contact its Post-Marketing Surveillance Division for further information or clarification, stressing that safeguarding public health remains its top priority.
