The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has achieved a significant legal victory against food counterfeiting in Nigeria, securing a five-year prison sentence for an Aba businessman involved in the production of counterfeit Goya Extra Virgin Olive Oil. The verdict was delivered by Justice K. O. Ogundare of the Federal High Court in Umuahia, Abia State, on October 28, 2026.

Innocent Okoye, the Managing Director of Chikason Industrial Nigeria Limited, was convicted on two counts related to the manufacture and sale of fake Goya oil. This conviction is part of NAFDAC's ongoing efforts to combat the rising threat posed by counterfeit food products in Nigerian markets, which can endanger consumer health and safety.

The case against Okoye stemmed from an enforcement operation conducted by NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate in April 2026. During this operation, officials discovered a facility in Aba that was allegedly used for the illegal production and distribution of counterfeit Goya oil. Following the arrest of Okoye, samples of the suspicious products were sent for scientific analysis, leading to the subsequent legal proceedings.

NAFDAC has expressed serious concerns over the proliferation of counterfeit food items, particularly those exploiting the reputations of well-known brands. In January 2026, the agency had already raised alarms regarding counterfeit Goya oil being sold in PET plastic bottles, which were misrepresented as genuine products imported through approved channels. Dr. Martins Iluyomade, NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, noted that these counterfeit products were often made by mixing palm oil with coloring agents, posing significant health risks to consumers.

The agency has urged consumers to be vigilant and verify the authenticity of products they purchase, especially those packaged in suspicious ways. NAFDAC emphasized that genuine Goya oil is only sold in original glass bottles and through authorized distribution networks. The risks associated with counterfeit edible oils include exposure to undeclared substances and contaminants, which can have serious health implications when used for cooking or skin application.

In light of this conviction, NAFDAC is reinforcing its commitment to enhance market surveillance and enforcement operations. The agency is calling for greater collaboration among manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to effectively combat food counterfeiting. NAFDAC has also encouraged the public to report any suspected counterfeit products or illegal manufacturing activities to their offices or through official channels.

As counterfeit products continue to infiltrate the market, NAFDAC's actions highlight the critical need for consumer awareness and vigilance to protect public health and safety.