Hidden Danger: NAFDAC Intercepts ₦3 Billion in Toxic Beauty Products at Lagos Trade Fair

In a massive blow to the counterfeit cosmetics industry, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a massive cache of banned and unregistered goods at the APT Trade Fair Complex in Lagos. Hidden within an uncompleted building to evade security, the haul is valued at over ₦3 billion.

Hidden Danger: NAFDAC Intercepts ₦3 Billion in Toxic Beauty Products at Lagos Trade Fair
photo credit: NAFDAC

The Bust: Eight Truckloads of Illicit Goods

The raid led to the seizure of high-demand but dangerous items, including:

• Banned Medicated Soaps: 728 cartons of Crusader and 718 cartons of E45—products strictly prohibited by the Federal Government due to toxic ingredients.

• Unregistered Cosmetics: Large quantities of Extract Gold whitening soaps, perfumes, and body oils.

• Health Hazards: Many of these products contain mercury and other heavy metals. According to a WHO report, these contaminants cost Africa $200 million annually in health damages, ranging from severe skin disorders to permanent organ failure.

Hidden Danger: NAFDAC Intercepts ₦3 Billion in Toxic Beauty Products at Lagos Trade Fair
photo credit: NAFDAC

The Rising Tide of Counterfeits

This operation is part of a broader crackdown as NAFDAC reports a 25% surge in fake product seizures since 2023. By evacuating these items before they hit the shelves, officials have prevented thousands of potential medical emergencies. The warehouse manager is currently under investigation as the agency intensifies its enforcement.

Consumer Safety Tip

NAFDAC urges Nigerians to remain vigilant. If a deal on luxury skincare seems too good to be true, or if the packaging lacks a valid NAFDAC registration number, report it immediately to your nearest NAFDAC office.

Written by Boom RadioNG