NAFDAC Tightens Grip on Food Safety with N5bn Fake Rice Seizure
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized counterfeit rice worth approximately ₦5 billion and shut down a factory and eight shops in Karu, Nasarawa State.
The operation, led by NAFDAC’s Director for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kenneth Azikiwe, uncovered a facility repackaging substandard rice into branded bags labeled as Royal Stallion, Big Bull, Mama’s Choice, Optimum, and Ultimate Gold, aiming to deceive consumers into believing they were purchasing premium products.
Azikiwe emphasized that the enforcement was part of a nationwide operation directed by NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, aimed at eliminating counterfeit food products from circulation, particularly during the festive season.
Several suspects involved in the counterfeiting operation were arrested during the raid and will soon face prosecution.
NAFDAC has urged consumers to remain vigilant when purchasing food products, especially rice, during the yuletide season, advising them to verify that products are registered with NAFDAC and to report suspicious items to the nearest agency office for investigation.
For more details, you can watch the following news report: