NAFDAC Raids Suleja Market, Seizes ₦47 Million Worth of Counterfeit Products

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut down a warehouse in Suleja operated by one Alhaji Ahmed, following the discovery of large quantities of banned Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) stored in 25kg bags.

The raid was part of a larger operation targeting illegal and unsafe products at the Ibrahim Babangida International Market in Niger State.

During the clampdown, NAFDAC operatives confiscated unwholesome, counterfeit, and unregistered products valued at over ₦47 million. Among the seized goods were fake Oral-B toothpaste, banned foreign spaghetti, and dubious oral care products such as Bamboo Charcoal toothpaste, “Crogate,” “Cloguide” triple-action toothpaste, and adulterated “Colgate” variants.

Several retail outlets within the market are now under investigation, with their inventories being scrutinised for regulatory compliance.

NAFDAC reiterated that Monosodium Glutamate, commonly known as “White Maggi” and used in making Ajinomoto seasoning, is banned for large-scale importation due to health and safety concerns. The agency warned consumers against purchasing repackaged MSG or any food additive that lacks proper labelling and approval.

To ensure public safety, NAFDAC reminded the public that all food and drug products must display a valid NAFDAC Registration Number, manufacturing and expiry dates, batch numbers, and the manufacturer’s contact details.