The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to shielding citizens from unsafe, subpar, expired, and counterfeit goods, stating that efforts are being stepped up to remove dangerous products from marketplaces and distribution centers.
According to a statement from the Lagos state government, Mr. Afolabi Solebo, General Manager of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, LASCOPA, said this during a press conference in Ikeja as part of events commemorating World Food Safety Day and World Anti-Counterfeiting Day in 2026.
According to Solebo, the Babajide Sanwo-Olu government continues to place a high focus on consumer protection, emphasizing that locals should have access to genuine, safe, and high-quality goods.
He said that in order to find and eliminate fake, out-of-date, and subpar goods from distribution, LASCOPA would keep conducting routine and unexpected inspections of marketplaces, supermarkets, warehouses, and distribution centers throughout the state.
He claims that in order to guarantee that individuals responsible for the manufacture, importation, distribution, or sale of dangerous goods are held accountable, the organization is also stepping up cooperation with pertinent governmental organizations, regulatory agencies, and security establishments.
“To promote adherence to safety standards, ethical business practices, and self-regulation within the market, the agency is strengthening partnerships with manufacturers’ associations, market leaders, regulatory agencies, and civil society organizations,” Solebo stated.
Olebo stated that LASCOPA would broaden its public awareness initiatives to inform locals about their rights as consumers, how to spot phony goods, and how to report infractions.
Before making purchases, he advised locals to verify product labels, certification markings, and expiration dates. He also asked them to use the agency’s formal complaint channels to report any suspected dangerous or counterfeit goods.
Along with urging locals to support the organization’s whistleblower program, “when You see something, say something,” the head of LASCOPA also urged merchants, manufacturers, distributors, and consumers to support initiatives meant to ensure a safer marketplace. He urged locals to use LASCOPA’s toll-free number, official social media accounts, or the organization’s headquarters in Allen, Ikeja, as well as its annex offices spread around the state’s Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas, to file grievances or seek redress.
About The Author
