Lagos State Reinforces Consumer Protection Framework in Response to Global Market Dangers
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing consumer protection mechanisms, highlighting the escalating threats from unsafe products, substandard services, and poorly regulated markets both within Nigeria and internationally. This announcement was made in observance of World Consumer Rights Day, themed "Safe Products, Confident Consumers," underscoring the state's proactive stance on public safety and economic stability.
Governor Sanwo-Olu Addresses Consumer Safety Concerns
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), expressed deep concern over the annual global toll of millions of injuries and billions of naira lost due to defective goods, counterfeit medicines, and deceptive marketing practices. He emphasized that consumer protection has evolved into a critical issue of public safety, economic resilience, and social justice, particularly in Lagos, Nigeria's commercial hub and one of Africa's largest consumer markets.
Sanwo-Olu noted the growing complexity of cross-border digital commerce, where banned or substandard items from one country can easily reach consumers in another through online platforms. He stressed that effective consumer protection demands collective responsibility, urging businesses to prioritize safety, transparency, and quality as essential for sustainable growth and customer loyalty.
LASCOPA's Pivotal Role in Safeguarding Consumers
The governor highlighted the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) as a key institution in this effort, tasked with investigating complaints, mediating disputes, promoting fair trade practices, and educating residents on their rights. He called on consumers to become more informed about their rights, including safety, information, choice, and the right to be heard, describing awareness as vital for maintaining market integrity.
Sanwo-Olu also underscored the significance of World Consumer Rights Day, observed annually on March 15, as a global movement advocating for fairness and accountability, with market trust being foundational for economic growth. He urged all stakeholders to renew their commitment to ensuring Lagos remains a safe and equitable marketplace.
Commissioner Ambrose Emphasizes Regulatory Strengthening
In her remarks, Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Bada Ambrose, represented by Mr. Babatunde Onigbanjo, emphasized that consumer confidence in product safety and quality is crucial for business prosperity and innovation. She pointed out that global concerns over product safety are rising, with research indicating that a significant percentage of banned or recalled products still infiltrate online marketplaces, posing serious risks to consumers.
Ambrose explained that Lagos, with a population exceeding 23 million and a dynamic marketplace spanning physical and digital platforms, requires a robust consumer protection framework to safeguard public interest and sustain economic activities. She detailed intensified efforts by the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment in collaboration with LASCOPA to strengthen regulatory systems, market surveillance, and enforcement mechanisms.
The commissioner warned that the government will not tolerate the circulation of unsafe, counterfeit, or substandard products, mandating businesses to comply with established safety and quality standards. She highlighted the importance of consumer education, describing informed consumers as key drivers of accountability, and announced expanded public enlightenment campaigns and digital outreach initiatives to empower residents in making informed purchasing decisions and reporting violations.
Ambrose further disclosed that the state is embracing innovation in regulatory approaches, particularly in response to the rapid growth of e-commerce, with plans to enhance collaboration with digital platforms, regulatory bodies, and international partners.
QNET Nigeria Clarifies Business Operations
At the event, General Manager of QNET Nigeria, Ayokunmi Solesi, clarified the company's business model, emphasizing that it revolves around product sales rather than recruitment, with commissions earned solely through product sales. He stated, "We are a global lifestyle and wellness company operating in the direct selling space, providing individuals with opportunities to sell our products." Solesi addressed misconceptions linking direct selling to fraudulent schemes, noting the company's commitment to public awareness to dispel such concerns.
On product quality, Solesi maintained that QNET does not face issues with substandard goods, attributing this to adherence to global standards and regulatory compliance. He explained, "The same products we receive in Nigeria are the same ones available in Europe. All our products are certified either by Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) or National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)." He identified misinformation about the company's operations as the primary challenge in Nigeria, rather than product quality issues.
