NAFDAC seizes counterfeit alcohol operation in Aba valued at over N500 million

Enforcement action in Aba The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) carried out an enforcement raid on 25 Omenazu Street in Aba, Abia State, after receiving intelligence about illegal alcohol production. The operation, announced on 19 October 2026, resulted in the seizure of a facility believed to be producing counterfeit whisky under unhygienic conditions. The individual thought to be running the operation fled the scene as officials arrived, abandoning a vehicle loaded with packaging materials that bore the names of established whisky brands.

Value of seized assets NAFDAC estimated that the equipment, materials and other components recovered from the site were worth more than N500 million. This valuation includes sealing machines, bottle caps, cartons, storage tanks and other items used in the illicit production process. The discovery follows a seizure earlier in the week of counterfeit packaging for alcoholic beverages and other products, which was valued at over N200 million in the same city.

Items recovered Inspectors found a range of items that suggested large‑scale production. Among the recovered objects were sealing machines, empty bottles, plastic buckets, and 200‑litre drums containing ethanol. Some drums held tree bark that had been soaked in ethanol, a combination that raised particular safety concerns. Additional materials included dirty sieves, which were likely used in the filtration or mixing stages, as well as cartons and other packaging supplies that could be used to disguise the counterfeit product as legitimate whisky.

Health and safety concerns The presence of ethanol, unidentified liquid mixtures and the use of tree bark in the production process prompted NAFDAC to warn the public about potential health hazards. The agency highlighted that the unhygienic environment and lack of quality control could expose consumers to harmful substances. In its statement, NAFDAC urged members of the public to report any credible information related to illegal alcohol manufacturing.

Broader context The raid underscores ongoing challenges faced by Nigerian regulators in curbing the proliferation of counterfeit alcoholic beverages. The recent seizure of packaging materials worth over N200 million indicates a pattern of illicit activity in Aba, a city that has become a focal point for counterfeit production. NAFDAC’s continued vigilance aims to protect consumers and uphold standards for food and drug safety across the country.

Outlook While the immediate threat from this particular operation has been neutralised, authorities remain alert to similar schemes. Ongoing intelligence gathering and public cooperation are essential to prevent the distribution of unsafe alcoholic products and to safeguard public health.