NAFDAC Alerts Nigerians Over Fake Colgate Toothpaste in Circulation, Warns of Serious Health Risks
By Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
For Global Egberi Media International Ltd
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued an urgent public health warning to Nigerians over the circulation of counterfeit and unregistered fake Colgate toothpaste in parts of the country, raising fresh concerns about consumer safety, product integrity, and the growing menace of fake goods in the Nigerian market.
According to a report by Punch Newspapers, NAFDAC disclosed that the fake products were discovered following a complaint received by its Post-Marketing Surveillance Directorate regarding suspicious toothpaste brands being sold in Kaduna State. The complaint triggered an immediate investigation by officials of the agency, who visited the retail outlet where the products were reportedly being distributed. (Punch Newspapers)
During the inspection, officials reportedly uncovered two suspicious products branded as “Coglaet ActivGel 100g” and “Coglaet Herbal 100g.” The products are believed to be counterfeit imitations designed to resemble the genuine Colgate toothpaste brand while misleading unsuspecting consumers. NAFDAC said the fake items lacked proper registration, quality assurance, and traceable documentation. (Punch Newspapers)
The agency further stated that the shop owner where the items were found claimed the products were supplied by a door-to-door sales representative. However, no invoice, receipt, distributor information, or proof of purchase was made available during questioning. This has intensified suspicions that an underground counterfeit supply chain may be operating through informal retail channels. (Punch Newspapers)
NAFDAC emphasized that the products had no valid batch numbers and no NAFDAC registration numbers, clear indicators that they are not approved for sale in Nigeria. The agency warned that such products have not undergone mandatory safety evaluation, quality testing, or regulatory clearance and may therefore pose significant risks to oral and general health. (Punch Newspapers)
Health experts note that counterfeit toothpaste can contain dangerous or substandard ingredients capable of causing gum irritation, mouth ulcers, tooth enamel damage, allergic reactions, poisoning, or long-term dental complications. Because toothpaste is used daily and often by children, the risks associated with fake oral care products are particularly serious.
In response, NAFDAC said the suspect products have been removed from circulation while investigations continue to identify manufacturers, importers, suppliers, and all persons connected to their distribution. The agency also urged state coordinators and zonal offices across the country to intensify surveillance in markets, pharmacies, supermarkets, and roadside shops. (NAFDAC)
The latest discovery once again highlights the persistent challenge of counterfeit consumer goods in Nigeria. Over the years, fake medicines, beverages, cosmetics, and household products have repeatedly surfaced in local markets, often targeting popular brands trusted by consumers. Counterfeiters exploit economic hardship and weak retail monitoring to sell dangerous imitations at cheaper prices.
Global Egberi Media International Ltd observes that the spread of fake products is not merely a commercial offence—it is a direct threat to public health, family safety, and national consumer confidence. When everyday essentials such as toothpaste can be counterfeited, it demonstrates the urgent need for stronger enforcement, border checks, and public awareness.
NAFDAC has advised Nigerians to purchase toothpaste and other regulated products only from reputable supermarkets, pharmacies, and licensed stores. Consumers are encouraged to inspect packaging carefully, confirm correct spelling of brand names, check for batch numbers, manufacturing details, expiry dates, and NAFDAC registration status before purchase.
Experts also recommend avoiding suspiciously cheap goods or products sold through unverified mobile vendors. Any unusual smell, strange texture, damaged seal, or poor packaging quality should be treated as a warning sign.
Citizens who encounter suspected counterfeit products have been urged to report immediately to NAFDAC through its official communication channels for swift investigation and enforcement action.
As economic pressures rise and counterfeit networks become more sophisticated, consumer vigilance remains one of the strongest lines of defense. Nigerians are therefore urged to remain alert and prioritize safety over bargain prices.
For now, the message from regulators is clear: check what you buy, know what you use, and protect your household from dangerous fake products.
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