By Joy Onu, Abuja
The Federal Government has unveiled a landmark initiative to curb the proliferation of counterfeit and substandard products in Nigeria, signaling a major step toward safeguarding consumers and boosting market confidence.
The agreement formalizing the deployment of the Products Authentication and Tracking System (PATS) was signed in Abuja under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement. The initiative brings together the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and Conformity Management Solutions Limited, with technology support from SICPA of Switzerland.
Senator John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, described the system as transformative for Nigeria’s markets, noting that it would not only combat counterfeit goods but also enhance consumer protection and regulatory efficiency. He added that the system would position Nigerian products competitively within the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Dr. Isokpunwu Christopher Osaruwanwem, Permanent Secretary of FMITI, emphasized that the initiative ensures Nigerians have access to safe and reliable products, highlighting its potential impact on public health and safety. “This milestone strengthens our resolve to eliminate counterfeit products and guarantees that only safe, high-quality goods reach consumers, especially the most vulnerable,” he said.
Jobson Ewalefoh, Director-General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), confirmed that all necessary regulatory approvals, including that of the Federal Executive Council, had been obtained, with implementation structured under a Build, Operate, and Transfer model. He said the approval process underscores the credibility of the project and sets the stage for transparent delivery.
Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, Director-General of SON, highlighted the system’s role in strengthening enforcement and reducing the circulation of substandard goods. Meanwhile, NAFDAC’s Deputy Director Dinah Sam Dinah explained that the platform would unify existing tracking mechanisms, enabling regulators to trace counterfeit products to their origin while giving consumers the ability to verify authenticity.
SICPA Chief Business Officer Gianni Nigro reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Nigeria through technological innovation, local capacity development, and secure infrastructure that will drive economic growth.
The PATS s
ystem will be rolled out across critical sectors, including pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, electronics, textiles, chemicals, and building materials, reinforcing efforts to maintain product integrity nationwide.
The Federal Government reiterated its determination to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative, describing it as a strategic measure to strengthen market integrity, protect consumers, and foster sustainable economic growth.
