Tunji Bello: FCCPC Tackling Regulatory Weaknesses Allowing Unsafe Products into Market

• Declares businesses under obligation to ensure products’ safety, others

James Emejo in Abuja

Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr. Tunji Bello, yesterday said it was deepening coordination with sector regulators and the national standards body to address weaknesses that permited unsafe products to enter or remain in the Nigerian market.

Bello said the move included structured collaboration, information sharing, and joint interventions where necessary.

The FCCPC boss spoke in Abuja at the commemoration of World Consumer Rights Day 2026, with the theme, “Safe Products, Confident Consumers,” and the 9th National Young Consumers Contest Awards.

Bello reaffirmed the commission’s effort to effectively monitor and enforce compliance across markets. He stressed that though the consumer rights commission did not control prices, fair pricing remained an essential part of a well-functioning market.

Represented by FCCPC Director, Surveillance and Investigations, Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, Bello stated that the theme for the year’s celebration, “captures a simple but important truth: where safety is uncertain, confidence declines. And where confidence declines, markets become weaker, less efficient, and less trustworthy”.

He pointed out that across several sectors, the commission continued to encounter products that did not meet basic safety and quality standards, including improperly labelled goods, products that fell short of essential safety requirements, and, in some cases, conduct that raised concerns about misrepresentation.

He said some of the failures arose from weak internal controls while others reflected gaps in compliance culture.

Bello stated that in certain instances, there were indications of deliberate disregard for legal and regulatory obligations.

He said, “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.

“Product safety, therefore, cannot be treated as a secondary matter. It is a core obligation, with clear public interest consequences.

“This approach aligns with the federal government’s ongoing economic reform programme under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which focuses on strengthening market integrity, improving consumer confidence, and promoting a rules-based business environment.

“Consumer protection is a key part of that effort. When markets are safe, reliable, and transparent, they support sustainable growth and give investors greater confidence to participate.”

According to him, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018 provides a clear legal framework.

He said under the law, consumers were entitled to goods that were safe, durable, and fit for purpose.

Bello maintained, “Businesses are under a duty to ensure that the products they place on the market consistently meet these standards. Where a product presents a risk, the law requires prompt corrective action, including withdrawal, recall, and proper notice to consumers.

“These are not optional expectations. They are statutory duties. Non-compliance attracts regulatory consequences.”

He said, “As a result, the commission has expanded market surveillance and strengthened product testing in priority sectors. Where conduct raises concerns about consumer safety, such matters are investigated.

“We will continue to act where conduct undermines fairness, transparency or safety, or otherwise harms consumers in breach of the law. Where breaches are established, appropriate enforcement action is taken in line with our mandate.”

The consumer protection chief executive emphasised the need for institutions to work in concert, saying that is when they are more effective.

Present at the event also were representatives from of Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).

Bello explained that each of the institutions or trade associations played an important role in ensuring that products met acceptable standards before and after entering the market.

He said, “Effective outcomes depend on alignment in standards, consistency in enforcement, and clarity in institutional responsibilities.

“The media also remains an important partner in this work. Accurate and responsible reporting helps consumers make informed choices, draws attention to harmful practices, and supports public accountability.

“The commission will continue to engage openly and constructively in that regard. Today, we also recognise participants in the 9th National Young Consumers Contest. This initiative forms part of a broader effort to build consumer awareness from an early stage in the lives of our young people.”

He added, “The students we honour today remind us that consumer protection is not only about enforcement. It is also about education, awareness, critical thinking, and responsible engagement.

“We commend these young participants for their effort and insight. We also acknowledge the support of their schools, teachers, and parents, whose guidance continues to shape informed and responsible future consumers.”

Bello stressed, “To manufacturers, importers, distributors, and service providers, the expectation is clear. Product safety must be built into every stage of your operations, from sourcing and production to distribution and retail. It cannot be treated as an afterthought, or as a matter to be addressed only after harm has occurred.

“Where defects or safety risks are identified, timely corrective action is required. Delay increases exposure, deepens consumer harm, and erodes trust. Failure to act responsibly will attract regulatory response.”

He said, “Compliance is not a favour to the regulator. It is a basic condition for participating in the market.

“To Nigerian consumers, remain informed, vigilant, and engaged. Ask questions. 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.”

Bello stated, “The commission is committed to protecting your rights and advancing fairer market outcomes. Safe and reliable markets depend on responsible business conduct, effective regulation, and informed consumer participation. That standard must be upheld consistently.”