NAFDAC seizes counterfeit alcohol packaging in Aba raid

NIGERIA – The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has seized counterfeit packaging materials for alcoholic drinks estimated to be worth over N200 million (US$150,150) during a raid on shops in Aba, Abia State, in October 2026.

The agency disclosed the operation in a post on its X handle on Wednesday, stating that officials raided five shops at the Old Court Road market in Aba. 

According to NAFDAC, the operation followed credible intelligence about the production and supply of counterfeit packaging materials in the market.

Seized Items Include Labels, Corks and Outer Packaging

The agency said the items recovered during the raid included fake labels, corks, packs and outer packaging materials, all bearing the names of several brands. 

NAFDAC stated that the operation uncovered counterfeit labels, corks, packs and outer packaging materials bearing the names of brands including Jameson, Glenfiddich, Four Cousins, Lord’s Dry Gin, Imperial Blue, Goya Oil, Chelsea, Squadron and Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps. 

The packaging materials seized were estimated to be worth over N200 million (US$150,150).

Traders Resisted Evacuation of Seized Materials

NAFDAC further stated that its investigation and enforcement operatives encountered threats and resistance from traders during the operation. 

The agency said this made it difficult for officials to evacuate the seized materials from the scene. 

The agency also disclosed that the owners of the five shops were absent at the time of the raid, and as a result, the premises were placed on hold to prevent interference with the items left inside.

Market Union Chair Pledges Cooperation

NAFDAC said that following the operation, it invited the chairman of the market union.

According to the agency, the chairman pledged to ensure the security of the sealed premises and to assist in identifying the owners of the shops. 

Counterfeit packaging represents a significant challenge for legitimate brand owners, since fake labels, corks and outer cartons allow illicit producers to pass off substandard or adulterated products as genuine. 

This undermines brand reputation, poses health risks to consumers and erodes tax revenue, while legitimate packaging manufacturers face unfair competition from operations that bypass quality and regulatory requirements. 

Enforcement actions targeting packaging supply chains therefore address counterfeiting at its source rather than only at the point of sale.

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