Fraud alerts and counterfeit goods rise in Ghana and Nigeria

The National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) in Ghana has issued a public warning regarding fraudsters impersonating its agents. These scammers are targeting individuals and businesses involved in school feeding programmes and government contracts. While specific tactics have not been fully disclosed, the company warns that these impersonations are likely intended to extract money, steal sensitive information, or compromise contract details.

In Nigeria, regulatory bodies including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) are facing public scrutiny due to a proliferation of counterfeit food, drugs, and cosmetics. Citizens have used social media to expose substandard products, such as fake toothpaste, amid growing concerns over the link between counterfeit goods and sudden deaths. This has led to increased calls for stronger surveillance and enforcement by Nigerian authorities.