NAFDAC Uncovers warehouse with ‘banned ‘ fake comestics ,implements New National Policy amid health concerns

By Folarin Adeyemi Aluko

The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a comprehensive National Policy on Cosmetics Safety and Health, a new initiative aimed at regulating the cosmetics industry and protecting Nigerians from the growing health risks associated with harmful cosmetic products.

The policy, which will be implemented over a five-year period, is designed to sanitise Nigeria’s cosmetics sector by strengthening regulations governing the production, importation, distribution and sale of cosmetic products across the country.

Authorities say the initiative will also improve product labelling standards, enhance regulatory monitoring, and increase public awareness about the dangers of using cosmetics that contain toxic substances.

Tackling Health Risks in the Cosmetics Industry

Officials note that the new policy comes amid rising concerns about the circulation of substandard, fake and unregistered cosmetic products in Nigerian markets, many of which contain harmful chemicals that can pose serious health risks.

These risks include skin damage, long-term toxicity and other medical complications associated with prolonged exposure to unsafe cosmetic ingredients.

The government says the policy will help ensure that cosmetic products sold in Nigeria comply with safety standards and international best practices.

Multi-Agency Collaboration

The programme brings together several key government agencies and international partners to strengthen enforcement and regulatory oversight.

Among the organisations involved are the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Nigeria Customs Service, the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Resolve to Save Lives, and the World Health Organization.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, the Director of the Cosmetics Safety Management Programme at the Federal Ministry of Health, Paul Okhakhu, said the government remains committed to developing strong regulations that will guide cosmetic production and ensure compliance nationwide.

He emphasised that improving consumer safety and preventing the distribution of unsafe cosmetic products are key priorities of the initiative.

NAFDAC Warns Against Violations

Also speaking, Ikenna Nsofor, Head of the Cosmetics and Household Products Division at National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, said the agency would intensify monitoring and enforcement activities across the country.

Representing NAFDAC’s Director-General Mojisola Adeyeye, he warned that individuals and companies found violating cosmetics safety guidelines would face strict sanctions.

According to him, stronger enforcement will help curb the distribution of unregistered products and protect Nigerian consumers from potential health hazards.

Lagos State to Adopt Policy

On the part of the Lagos State Government, the Director of Pharmaceutical Services at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Olawale Poluyi, said the state would review the policy with the aim of adopting and implementing it at the state level.

He noted that Lagos, being Nigeria’s commercial hub and a major centre for cosmetics trade, plays a crucial role in enforcing safety standards within the industry.

NAFDAC Uncovers Illegal Cosmetics Warehouse

The policy announcement comes just weeks after National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control uncovered a warehouse containing banned, fake and unregistered cosmetic products valued at more than ₦3 billion in Lagos.

According to the agency, the products were discovered at the APT Trade Fair Complex, concealed within an unfinished building.

Items recovered from the warehouse included 728 cartons of Crusader soap, 718 cartons of E45 soap, and Extract Gold whitening soaps, all of which are banned products in Nigeria.

Investigators also found large quantities of assorted perfumes, body oils and cooking oils, which have been placed on hold for further regulatory assessment.

NAFDAC said all the seized items had been evacuated to prevent distribution, while the warehouse manager had been invited for questioning as investigations continue.

Protecting Consumers

Authorities stress that cosmetics safety is a shared responsibility involving regulators, manufacturers and consumers.

The new national policy is expected to strengthen cooperation among government agencies, align Nigeria’s cosmetics industry with international standards, and significantly reduce the health risks posed by unsafe cosmetic products.