The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control 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 were placed under investigation pending verification of their inventory.
Monosodium glutamate, a sodium salt used in Ajinomoto seasoning, also known as “White Maggi”, has been banned for large-scale importation into Nigeria due to health and regulatory concerns.
NAFDAC advises consumers to avoid repackaged MSG and other food additives that do not carry proper labelling.
Products must have a valid NAFDAC Number, manufacturing and expiry dates, batch number, and the manufacturer’s address to ensure they meet safety and quality standards.