The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on the proliferation of fake and substandard goods, drugs, and food across Nigeria.

In a motion of urgent public importance, Muktar Shagaya, who represents Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency in Kwara State, highlighted the dire economic and public health risks posed by counterfeit products. Citing the Standards Organization of Nigeria, he revealed that the country suffers an estimated ₦15 trillion annual loss due to these illicit activities.

Shagaya emphasized that the unchecked distribution of fake goods endangers consumers, discourages investment in key industries, and threatens national security. He attributed the persistence of the problem to weak enforcement mechanisms and inadequate penalties for offenders.

In response, the House urged the Federal Government to establish a special task force comprising security agencies, regulatory bodies, and the judiciary to expedite investigations and prosecutions of those involved in counterfeiting. Additionally, lawmakers called for increased funding, modern equipment, and advanced technology to bolster the enforcement capacity of regulatory agencies, including NAFDAC, the Standards Organization of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Customs Service.

This move underscores growing concerns over the safety of consumer products and the urgent need for stricter regulatory oversight in Nigeria.