The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised a nationwide alarm following the discovery of counterfeit “Kiss” brand condoms in several major commercial hubs across Nigeria.
The agency warned that these falsified contraceptives pose a severe threat to public health, specifically undermining efforts to prevent unintended pregnancies and the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS.
In a formal statement released yesterday (Public Alert No. 042/2025), NAFDAC revealed that the intelligence was provided by the Marketing Authorisation Holder, DKT International Nigeria.
Investigative reports show that the fake products have already flooded key distribution points, including the Idumota Market in Lagos, the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra, and the Trade Fair Market. Other affected areas include markets in Abuja, Kano, Uyo, Gombe, and Enugu.
The health implications of using these substandard products are significant. NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, cautioned that counterfeit condoms often bypass critical sterilization processes and fail to meet the required regulatory standards for latex strength and lubrication.
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“The use of these falsified condoms provides a dangerous false sense of security, the statement reads. “Because they are made with thinner, inferior latex, they are prone to breakage during use. This directly exposes users to the risk of infections, allergic reactions, and failed contraception.”
To protect consumers, NAFDAC has provided a detailed guide to distinguishing the genuine “Kiss” brand from the fakes. Authentic Kiss condoms feature a lighter red packaging with the brand name written closely across six lines.
In contrast, the counterfeit versions have a darker, lower-quality print where the brand name is loosely written across only five lines. Furthermore, the fake boxes often carry an incorrect manufacturer’s address, specifically listing “42, Montgomery Road, Yaba, Lagos,” and lack essential storage and caution information on the side panels.
Physically, the fake condoms are reported to be thinner, rounder, and significantly less lubricated than the genuine oval-shaped, larger-teat versions.
NAFDAC has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to commence an immediate nationwide “mop-up” operation to remove these products from circulation. Distributors, retailers, and healthcare providers are urged to scrutinize their supply chains and report any suspicious stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.
As the festive season reaches its peak today, the agency advises the public to purchase health and medical products only from registered pharmacies or licensed outlets. Reports of adverse reactions or the discovery of these falsified items can be made via the NAFDAC toll-free line (0800-162-3322) or the Med-safety application.