…four key Abuja markets flag off phase 1 of nationwide consumer protection initiative
By Nkechi Eze
In a renewed effort to sanitize Nigerian markets and enhance consumer protection, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has officially inaugurated the Joint Market Monitoring Taskforce (JMMT) for markets within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The initiative, launched as Phase 1 of a broader national operation, aims to rid Nigerian markets of hazardous, counterfeit, and substandard products while reinforcing ethical business practices and fair competition.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Abuja, drew participation from key stakeholders including representatives from four major markets in the FCT, Wuse Market, Utako Market, Garki International Market, and Garki Modern Market. The event marks the beginning of a nationwide monitoring initiative that will eventually cover markets across the country.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman, Mr. Tunji Bello, the Commission’s Director of Surveillance and Investigations, Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, emphasized the strategic importance of the Taskforce in ensuring that Nigerian consumers are protected from harmful products and unfair business practices, particularly in light of current economic challenges.
“This event, again, underscores FCCPC’s unwavering commitment and resolve to protect Nigerian consumers from harmful and unsafe products and also to promote competitiveness in our markets. It is no news that our markets are flooded with fake, counterfeit, and substandard products. At a time when consumers and businesses are facing rising costs, it becomes even more important to ensure that every naira spent brings value,” she stated.
Mrs. Adeyinka explained that the establishment of the JMMT aligns with provisions of Section 17 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), which mandates the Commission to actively eliminate hazardous goods, deceptive marketing, and anti-competitive practices that undermine market efficiency and consumer welfare.
She noted that while the Commission continues to build internal mechanisms to fulfill its mandate, collaboration with stakeholders, including market executives, regulatory partners, and the general public, remains essential.
“Effective market monitoring requires the synergy of all stakeholders—regulators, market executives, and traders. The JMMT is our answer to this need for collaboration. Today, we inaugurate the first set of teams in four FCT markets, and this is just the beginning. Our goal is to establish these taskforces across every major market in Nigeria,” she said.
According to her, the terms of reference for the Taskforce already communicated to participating markets. including monitoring for counterfeit goods, verifying product authenticity, encouraging pricing transparency, and facilitating real-time responses to consumer complaints. Taskforce members from the markets also pledged their commitment to support the Commission in the realization of its objectives.
The FCCPC Vice Chairman also encouraged the public to actively engage with the Commission by reporting violations or unethical practices through its hotlines, complaint portal, email, or social media platforms, assuring confidentiality and swift action.
In his remarks, Musa Shelleng, Head of Monitoring and Enforcement at Abuja Market Management Limited, commended the FCCPC for launching the initiative. He urged the Commission to accompany the launch with widespread sensitization and awareness campaigns for traders and market users.
“The success of this initiative will depend heavily on effective communication. Traders must understand the importance of this Taskforce and how it benefits not only consumers but also businesses who play by the rules,” Shelleng noted, pledging the support of Abuja Market Management toward the implementation process.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Paul Nnamani, Chairman of Garki Market, praised the FCCPC for taking such a bold and necessary step. He promised to disseminate the information to traders and ensure strict adherence to the terms of the Taskforce.
“As market leaders, we must take responsibility for educating our members. Sharp practices not only hurt consumers, they tarnish the reputation of our markets. We must ensure that everyone gets value for their money,” Nnamani stated.
Other market executives echoed similar sentiments, calling on the Commission to ensure inclusive stakeholder engagement throughout the life cycle of the JMMT. They also emphasized the need for sustained monitoring, continuous evaluation, and periodic feedback mechanisms.
The inauguration of the JMMT is seen as a crucial step in actualizing the FCCPC’s mandate of ensuring a safer, fairer, and more competitive market environment. As economic pressure mounts on consumers and businesses alike, the Commission is positioning itself as a frontline defender of consumer rights while promoting fair play in Nigeria’s commercial ecosystem.
With Phase 1 now underway in the FCT, expectations are high as the FCCPC moves toward replicating the model across Nigeria’s states, ensuring that markets truly work for the people.
