WCRD 2026: FCCPC extends market surveillance to unsafe electrical, building materials

*The Surveillance and Investigations Department of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission affirms the market regulator has continued to encounter products that did not meet basic safety and quality standards in Nigeria

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

As part of measures to address infiltration of unsafe products in Nigerian markets, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has disclosed it expanded market surveillance and product testing to electrical and electronics products.

ConsumerConnect reports the FCCPC said the move was to ensure strict regulatory compliance.

The market regulatory Commission, on the occasion of the commemoration of 2026 World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD), also explained that it would be extending market surveillance to cables and other building materials.

It noted that this effort resulted from significant product safety issues related to collapsed buildings in the country in recent times.

Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, Director of the Surveillance and Investigations Department at FCCPC, said the Commission had continued to encounter products that did not meet basic safety and quality standards.

This year’s World Consumer Rights Day has the theme: “Safe Products, Confident Consumers”, the event which the FCCPC said coincided with the 9th National Young Consumers Contest Awards.

Speaking on behalf of Mr. Tunji Bello, Executive Vice-Chairman/Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of FCCPC, Mrs. Adeyinka further said when business conduct raised concerns about consumer safety, the Commission would investigate.

Bello equally revealed the Commission is coordinating with various sector regulators to address weaknesses that permitted unsafe products to enter or remain in the market, agency report said.

The FCCPC EVC/CEO stated: “When a product presents a risk, the law requires prompt collective action, including product withdrawal, product recall, and proper notice to the consumer.

“If you are producing products in Nigeria and you discover there is a safety concern or likely to be a safety concern with respect to products that you have rolled out in the market, you have an obligation to withdraw and recall them.”

Bello also noted: “You also give notice to consumers who have purchased those products to be able to make the remedial actions, particularly with products that may significantly affect the lives of consumers of those products.”

He emphasised these are not optional expectations but legal requirements under the West African country’s law.

Bello also said: “They are statutory duties to ensure product safety and consumer welfare in Nigeria.

“Failure to act responsibly by recalling, withdrawing, and issuing a consumer notice will attract a strict regulatory response from the commission. Compliance is not a favour to the regulator.”

The FCCPC Chief Executive as well noted the Commission has remained committed to effectively monitoring and enforcing compliance across the market.

Safe and reliable markets depend on responsible business conduct, effective regulation, and informed consumer participation, she stated.

Bello, therefore, urged consumers to remain informed, vigilant, and engaged.

He urged consumers to report product concerns where they arose to the Commission’s hotline or the Web site for action.

The Executive Vice-Chairman advised Nigerians: “If you suspect any product in the market, even if you are not buying it, please just alert us on our hotline or on the Web site.

“Just give us the location of the product. You can snap it and send it to us on WhatsApp, include the location and address, and provide as much information as you can to help us take action and remove such products from the market.”

Bello averred: “You will be saving not only yourself, but even a significant number of consumers that could be members of your family that you don’t know.”

Objectives of 9th National Young Consumers Contest

In a related development, the Commission would continue to engage openly and constructively in that regard.

Bello affirmed the FCCPC also recognises participants in the 9th National Young Consumers Contest.

He said the initiative formed part of a broader effort to “build consumer awareness from an early stage in the lives of our young people.”

“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.”

The EVC/CEO of FCCPC stated: “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 tasks consumers on improved protection

Bello said: “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.

He also explained: “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 further 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.”

Bello noted: “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.”

In attendance at the forum 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).

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