The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut down a network of shops selling unapproved skin-bleaching creams in Sabon Gari, Kano, resulting in six arrests following weeks of surveillance operations.
The crackdown, which took place on Tuesday, was triggered by public complaints and disturbing videos circulating on social media showing vendors openly promoting toxic creams disguised as beauty spa treatments.
Harmful Products Marketed as Beauty Solutions
NAFDAC's Kano State Coordinator, Mr. Kasim Ibrahim, revealed that many of the seized products promised "instant results" while concealing serious health risks including irreversible skin damage and potential exposure to carcinogenic substances.
"These products weren't just being sold quietly — they were being marketed aggressively, even glamorised, despite containing banned and harmful substances," Ibrahim explained during a press briefing in Kano.
He emphasized the broader implications of the illegal trade: "This isn't just about beauty — it's about health, dignity, and the lives of our women and youth who are being misled and harmed."
Undercover Operations Led to Arrests
The agency's investigation involved undercover operations and mystery shopping to gather evidence discreetly before the final raids. NAFDAC's Investigation and Enforcement team collected samples for laboratory testing and sealed several shops, some permanently.
"These people weren't just breaking the law — they were endangering lives for profit," Ibrahim stated. "We won't sit back and watch."
The coordinator confirmed that the shops will remain closed while further investigations continue, with those arrested facing charges related to distributing fake or unregistered cosmetic products.
NAFDAC's Ongoing Commitment
Ibrahim highlighted that under the leadership of Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC remains committed to protecting Nigerians from harmful products, including cosmetics which are often overlooked despite their widespread use.
He appealed to Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious products or vendors, thanking the media for helping raise awareness as the agency intensifies its nationwide crackdown on illegal cosmetics.
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