By Progress Godfrey

ABUJA — The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has called on Nigerian consumers to remain vigilant and demand high safety standards, while warning manufacturers and distributors that built-in product safety is a mandatory condition for market participation.

Executive Vice Chairman of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, who was represented by the Director of Surveillance and Investigation, Boladale Adeyinka, issued the warning on Wednesday in Abuja during the commemoration of the World Consumer Rights Day 2026 and the 9th National Consumers Contest Awards.

Bello expressed concern over the rising cases of improperly labelled goods and deliberate disregard for regulatory obligations by some operators, maintaining that such failures weaken market integrity and expose Nigerian consumers to avoidable risks while placing law-abiding businesses at a disadvantage.

He noted that the commission has intensified market surveillance and product testing to identify and remove goods that fall short of essential legal requirements.

“The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018 provides a clear legal framework. Consumers are entitled to goods that are safe, durable, and fit for purpose. Businesses are under a duty to ensure that the products they place on the market consistently meet these standards. 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. Non-compliance attracts regulatory consequences.

“To manufacturers, importers, distributors, and service providers, the expectation is clear. To Nigerian consumers, remain informed, vigilant, and engaged. Ask questions. Examine products before purchase. Pay attention to labelling, quality, and safety information. Report concerns where they arise,” he said.

The FCCPC further clarified that while it does not control market prices, it remains committed to intervening in instances where unfair trade practices or price-fixing arrangements undermine the welfare of the public. This, the FCCPC boss said, aligns with broader economic reforms aimed at strengthening consumer confidence and promoting a rules-based business environment.

“Product safety must be built into every stage of your operations, from sourcing and production to distribution and retail. It cannot be treated as an afterthought, or as a matter to be addressed only after harm has occurred,” Bello said.

He added that the commission is also deepening its collaboration with the national standards body and sector regulators to close gaps that allow substandard products to remain in the market. He said the synergy is expected to produce more consistent enforcement outcomes and clearer institutional responsibilities across the trade sector.

He therefore urged stakeholders to view compliance as a core obligation rather than a favour to the regulator. He also emphasised that timely corrective action is required whenever defects are identified to prevent the erosion of trust and further harm to the marketplace.

The event featured participation from key stakeholders, including the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).