The Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, Tunji Bello, has issued a strong warning to manufacturers, importers and service providers over the circulation of unsafe and substandard products, declaring that violations will attract firm regulatory action.
Bello gave the warning at at an event to mark the 2026 World Consumer Rights Day and the 9th National Consumers Contest Awards in Abuja.
According to him, product safety must be treated as a fundamental obligation, not an afterthought, in Nigeria’s marketplace.
While commenting on this year’s theme, “Safe Products, Confident Consumers,” he stressed that consumer confidence is directly tied to the safety and quality of goods in circulation.
“Where safety is uncertain, confidence declines. And where confidence declines, markets become weaker, less efficient, and less trustworthy,” he said.
The FCCPC boss revealed that the Commission continues to encounter a range of substandard products across sectors, including improperly labelled goods and items that fail to meet basic safety requirements.
He said in some cases such infractions stem from weak internal controls, while others suggest deliberate non-compliance with regulatory standards.
“Across several sectors, the Commission continues to encounter products that do not meet basic safety and quality standards… In certain instances, there are indications of deliberate disregard for legal and regulatory obligations,” Bello stated.
He warned that the implications of such practices are far-reaching, affecting both consumers and compliant businesses.
“The effect is immediate and serious. Consumers are exposed to avoidable risks, trust in the market is weakened, and law-abiding businesses are placed at a disadvantage,” he added.
Reiterating the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, Bello said businesses are legally required to ensure that products are safe, durable and fit for purpose.
He added that where risks are identified, companies must take corrective steps, including product withdrawal, recall and proper consumer notification.
“These are not optional expectations. They are statutory duties. Non-compliance attracts regulatory consequences,” he said.
Bello disclosed that the Commission has intensified market surveillance and strengthened product testing across priority sectors, adding that enforcement actions would be pursued wherever breaches are established.
He also emphasized ongoing collaboration with key regulatory bodies, including the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, to close regulatory gaps and prevent unsafe products from entering the market.
Clarifying the Commission’s role in pricing, Bello noted that while the FCCPC does not fix prices, it remains committed to ensuring fairness and transparency.
“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 said.
He linked the Commission’s efforts to the broader economic reform agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises market integrity, investor confidence and a rules-based business environment.
Addressing consumers, Bello urged Nigerians to be vigilant and proactive in protecting their rights.
“Remain informed, vigilant, and engaged. Ask questions. Examine products before purchase… Report concerns where they arise,” he advised.
He emphasised that consumer protection is a shared responsibility requiring active participation.
“Consumer protection is stronger when consumers are informed and active participants in the market,” he said.
The FCCPC boss also underscored the importance of consumer education, particularly among young people, as highlighted by the National Consumers Contest Awards, which aim to build awareness and critical thinking from an early stage.
He also called for sustained collaboration among regulators, businesses, the media and consumers to ensure safer products, stronger confidence and a more accountable marketplace.
“Product safety must be built into every stage of operations… It cannot be treated as an afterthought,” Bello stated.
