The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has raised concerns over the increasing presence of unsafe and substandard consumer products across various sectors.

Speaking at the commemoration of World Consumer Rights Day 2026 and the 9th National Consumers Contest Awards in Abuja, the Commission’s Executive Vice Chairman, Tunji Bello, disclosed that the agency continues to encounter products that fail to meet basic safety and quality standards.

He identified such products as including improperly labelled goods, items that fall short of essential safety requirements, and, in some cases, products associated with misleading or deceptive practices.

Bello explained that these failures often stem from weak internal controls, reflecting gaps in compliance culture.

“In certain instances, there are indications of deliberate disregard for legal and regulatory obligations. 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 said.

He stressed that product safety must not be treated as a secondary concern, noting that it is a core obligation with significant public interest implications.

According to him, this approach aligns with the Federal Government’s ongoing economic reform programme under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which aims to strengthen market integrity, boost consumer confidence, and promote a rules-based business environment.

“Consumer protection is a key part of that effort,” Bello added.

He noted that safe, reliable, and transparent markets are essential for sustainable growth and for attracting investor confidence.

Bello further highlighted that the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018 provides a clear legal framework guaranteeing consumers the right to goods that are safe, durable, and fit for purpose.

He emphasized that businesses have a duty to ensure that products placed on the market consistently meet these standards. Where risks are identified, the law requires prompt corrective actions, including product withdrawal, recall, and adequate consumer notification.

“These are not optional expectations—they are statutory duties. Non-compliance attracts regulatory consequences,” he stated.

The FCCPC boss revealed that the Commission has intensified market surveillance and strengthened product testing in priority sectors. He added that any conduct posing risks to consumer safety is thoroughly investigated.

“Where breaches are established, appropriate enforcement action is taken in line with our mandate. We are also strengthening coordination with sector regulators and the national standards body to address gaps that allow unsafe products into the market. This includes structured collaboration, information sharing, and joint interventions where necessary,” he said.

Bello maintained that product safety must be integrated into every stage of business operations—from sourcing and production to distribution and retail.

He warned that safety should never be treated as an afterthought or addressed only after harm has occurred.

“Where defects or safety risks are identified, timely corrective action is required. Delays increase exposure, deepen consumer harm, and erode trust. Failure to act responsibly will attract regulatory response. Compliance is not a favour to the regulator—it is a basic condition for participating in the market,” he said.

He urged Nigerian consumers to remain informed, vigilant, and proactive.

“Examine products before purchase. Pay attention to labelling, quality, and safety information. Report concerns where they arise. Consumer protection is stronger when consumers are informed and active participants in the market. The Commission is committed to protecting your rights and advancing fairer market outcomes,” Bello advised.

He reiterated that safe and reliable markets depend on responsible business conduct, effective regulation, and informed consumer participation.

Bello also clarified misconceptions about the Commission’s role in pricing, stressing that the FCCPC does not fix prices but ensures fairness in the marketplace.

“The Commission does not control prices. However, fair pricing is essential to a well-functioning market. We will continue to act where conduct undermines fairness, transparency, or safety, or otherwise harms consumers in breach of the law. Consumer protection is most effective when institutions work in concert,” he said.