The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted the public to the circulation of unregistered and suspected counterfeit toothpaste products in Kaduna State, warning of potential health risks to consumers.

In a public alert (No. 022/2026), the agency disclosed that its Post-Marketing Surveillance Directorate received a complaint regarding the distribution of fake toothpaste falsely associated with the Colgate brand.

Following an investigation, NAFDAC officials visited a retail outlet where the products were reportedly being sold and discovered two suspicious items labelled Coglaet ActivGel 100g and Coglaet Herbal 100g.

The agency noted that the products are neither registered nor approved, raising concerns about their safety, quality, and authenticity.

According to NAFDAC, the shop owner claimed the items were purchased from a door-to-door sales representative but was unable to provide any documentation or proof of purchase. The agency subsequently confiscated the products from the outlet.

NAFDAC emphasised that unregistered and counterfeit regulated products do not undergo the required quality assurance and regulatory checks, making them potentially harmful to public health.

It added that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for distributing the products.

The agency urged consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of substandard or falsified products. Reports can be made at the nearest NAFDAC office, via its toll-free line (0800-162-3322), or by email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.

NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that only certified and safe products are available in the Nigerian market. (Guardian)