NAFDAC Raids Suleja Market, Seizes Banned MSG and Counterfeit Oral Care Products

By Adamu Aliyu Aliyu/ABUJA//

NAFDAC has sealed a warehouse in Niger State operated by one Alhaji Ahmed, for stocking large quantities of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) in 25kg bags, a product banned for importation into Nigeria. In a wider operation at the Ibrahim Babangida International Market, the Agency seized unwholesome, unregistered, and counterfeit products valued at over ₦47 million.

Among the confiscated items were counterfeit Oral-B toothpaste, banned foreign spaghetti, and unregistered products such as Bamboo Charcoal toothpaste, “Crogate” and “Cloguide” triple-action toothpaste, and adulterated “Colgate” toothpaste. Several shops have been placed under investigation pending verification of their inventory.

Monosodium glutamate, a sodium salt commonly used in producing Ajinomoto seasoning, also known as “White Maggi”, has been banned for large-scale importation into Nigeria due to health and regulatory concerns. NAFDAC strongly advises consumers to avoid repackaged MSG and other food additives that do not carry proper labelling.

Products must have a valid NAFDAC Registration Number, manufacturing and expiry dates, batch number, and the manufacturer’s address to ensure they meet safety and quality standards.