The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has raised concerns over the increasing circulation of unsafe and substandard products in Nigerian markets, warning that the trend is weakening consumer confidence and market integrity.
The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, gave the warning on Wednesday in Abuja during the commemoration of World Consumer Rights Day 2026 and the 9th National Consumers Contest Awards.
He said: “We are gathered at a time when product safety has become central to market integrity, consumer confidence, and public welfare.
“The theme for this year’s celebration, Safe Products, Confident Consumers, captures a simple but important truth: where safety is uncertain, confidence declines.”
Bello warned that declining confidence could weaken markets and reduce efficiency.
He said: “And where confidence declines, markets become weaker, less efficient, and less trustworthy.
“Across several sectors, the Commission continues to encounter products that do not meet basic safety and quality standards.”
He listed improperly labelled goods, products failing safety requirements and cases of misrepresentation as key concerns.
He said: “Some of these failures arise from weak internal controls. Others reflect gaps in compliance culture.
“In certain instances, there are indications of deliberate disregard for legal and regulatory obligations.”
Bello said the impact of unsafe products is immediate and far-reaching.
He said: “Consumers are exposed to avoidable risks, trust in the market is weakened, and law-abiding businesses are placed at a disadvantage.
“Product safety, therefore, cannot be treated as a secondary matter.
“It is a core obligation, with clear public interest consequences.”
He linked product safety to economic stability and investor confidence.
He said: “When markets are safe, reliable and transparent, they support sustainable growth and give investors greater confidence to participate.”
The FCCPC boss stressed that compliance with safety standards is a legal requirement under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018.
He said: “Consumers are entitled to goods that are safe, durable and fit for purpose.
“Where a product presents a risk, the law requires prompt corrective action, including withdrawal, recall and proper notice to consumers.
“These are not optional expectations. They are statutory duties.”
He added that the Commission has strengthened surveillance and enforcement.
Bello said: “Where conduct raises concerns about consumer safety, such matters are investigated.
“Where breaches are established, appropriate enforcement action is taken in line with our mandate.”
To address regulatory gaps, the FCCPC said it is working with agencies including the Standards Organisation of Nigeria and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control.
He said: “Consumer protection is most effective when institutions work in concert.
“Effective outcomes depend on alignment in standards, consistency in enforcement and clarity in institutional responsibilities.”
On pricing concerns, Bello clarified that the Commission does not regulate prices but monitors fairness in the market.
He said: “The Commission does not control prices. However, fair pricing is an essential part of a well-functioning market.
“We will continue to act where conduct undermines fairness, transparency or safety.”
He urged manufacturers and service providers to prioritise safety across their operations.
Bello said: “Product safety must be built into every stage of your operations, from sourcing and production to distribution and retail.
“Failure to act responsibly will attract regulatory response. Compliance is not a favour to the regulator. It is a basic condition for participating in the market.”
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He also called on consumers to remain vigilant.
He said: “To Nigerian consumers, remain informed, vigilant and engaged. Ask questions. Examine products before purchase.
“Consumer protection is stronger when consumers are informed and active participants in the market.”
Bello noted that tackling unsafe products requires stronger enforcement, improved compliance and active participation from all stakeholders.
He said: “Safe and reliable markets depend on responsible business conduct, effective regulation and informed consumer participation.
“That standard must be upheld consistently.”
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