Government launches initiative to purge markets of fake goods using innovative authentication technology

In a significant effort to combat counterfeit and substandard goods, the Federal Government has formalized an agreement to implement the Products Authentication and Tracking System, or PATS, thereby bolstering confidence in Nigeria's markets.

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This landmark agreement, signed in Abuja, brings together key stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, and Conformity Management Solutions Limited, with technological support from SICPA of Switzerland, under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement.

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Senator John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, highlighted the critical role of PATS in protecting consumers and supporting local industries, stating that the system will not only combat counterfeit goods but also enhance regulatory efficiency and position Nigerian products competitively within the African Continental Free Trade Area.

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Jobson Ewalefoh, Director-General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, noted that the project has secured all necessary approvals, including that of the Federal Executive Council, demonstrating the project's credibility and paving the way for transparent and efficient delivery.

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According to Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, Director-General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, PATS will strengthen enforcement and reduce the circulation of substandard goods, while also enabling real-time product verification and improving regulatory oversight across markets.

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Dinah Sam Dinah, Deputy Director of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, explained that the initiative will unify existing tracking mechanisms into a national system, allowing authorities to trace counterfeit products to their source and enabling consumers to verify authenticity directly.

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Gianni Nigro, SICPA Chief Business Officer, confirmed that the company will support the implementation of PATS through technology, local investment, and capacity development.

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The Products Authentication and Tracking System will be deployed across key sectors, including pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, electronics, textiles, chemicals, and building materials, to ensure product integrity.