By Godfrey AKON
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, has inaugurated a Joint Market Monitoring Taskforce, JMMT, to intensify oversight of market activities and protect consumers from unsafe goods and exploitative practices.
Executive Vice Chairman of FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, who led the inauguration, emphasized the importance of collaboration between government regulators and market stakeholders to ensure a more transparent and consumer-friendly marketplace.
Represented by the Director of Surveillance and Investigation, Boladale Adeyinka, Bello said “to make markets function effectively, we must foster teamwork between regulators and market union leaders.
“This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to shielding consumers from harmful products while encouraging healthy business competition.”
He noted that Nigeria’s markets remain plagued by counterfeit and substandard goods that pose risks to consumer safety and value. In a time of economic hardship for both consumers and businesses, ensuring people get value for their purchases is critical.
“FCCPC’s mandate under Section 17 of the FCCPA includes removing unsafe products, stamping out exploitative trade practices, and addressing anti-competitive conduct that weakens fair market dynamics,” he added.
The newly formed taskforce, he explained, will commence with Phase 1 of its operations, covering four major markets in the Federal Capital Territory: Wuse Market, Utako Market, Garki International Market, and Garki Modern Market. This pilot will be expanded nationwide in subsequent phases.
According to Bello, the Terms of Reference for the taskforce have been clearly communicated to its members, who have pledged their support. She encouraged the public to assist the Commission by reporting consumer rights violations through FCCPC’s official communication channels.
Also speaking at the event, Head of Marketing and Enforcement for Abuja markets, Musa Shelleng, highlighted the need for trader education before full enforcement begins.
“Most traders are not looking to break the rules. In fact, many are uncomfortable with illegal shortcuts. The few that do may simply be uninformed. Before enforcement starts, there must be adequate sensitisation. Let traders understand the dos and don’ts,” he said.
Shelleng stressed that traders are primarily concerned with making a living and would comply if properly guided.
The FCCPC reiterated that the initiative aims to enhance consumer confidence, improve product safety, and ensure Nigeria’s markets function with integrity and accountability.
