SWAN backs stronger enforcement against counterfeit alcohol in Nigeria

The Spirits & Wines Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called for stronger collaboration between regulators, enforcement agencies and industry players to curb illicit alcohol trade and protect consumers from counterfeit products.

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A statement by the association said recent seizures and arrests across the country indicated that coordinated enforcement efforts were helping to disrupt illicit trade networks, which pose risks to consumer safety, government revenue and legitimate businesses.

Tony Okwoju, director-general of SWAN, the association commended regulatory and enforcement agencies for their continued efforts to combat counterfeit alcoholic products.

SWAN said the reported enforcement actions demonstrated the growing effectiveness of collaboration among government agencies, industry operators and intelligence partners in tackling illicit trade.

“Illicit trade remains a serious challenge that affects government revenue, legitimate businesses and, most importantly, consumer safety,” it said, adding that recent enforcement successes showed that coordinated efforts were delivering tangible results.

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The association said its member companies were investing in brand protection, market surveillance and intelligence gathering to help authorities identify and disrupt illicit trade activities.

Beyond enforcement, SWAN highlighted sustainable initiatives, including glass recovery projects, which it said helped remove empty bottles from circulation, support environmental sustainability and reduce opportunities for illicit refilling and counterfeiting.

The association also urged the media to report enforcement actions responsibly by clearly distinguishing counterfeit products from genuine brands, warning against coverage that could create confusion among consumers about legitimate products.

SWAN reaffirmed that reputable producers remained committed to maintaining quality and safety standards, while urging consumers to buy alcoholic beverages from trusted and authorised retail outlets.

It advised consumers to check that product packaging and seals were intact and to report suspicious products or suspected illicit trade activities to the relevant authorities.

According to the association, sustained collaboration among government agencies, manufacturers, retailers, distributors, the media and consumers is necessary to protect public health, preserve government revenue, safeguard legitimate jobs and maintain confidence in established brands.

Earlier this year, SWAN organised a workshop on combating illicit trade in the alcohol industry, bringing together regulatory bodies, enforcement agencies, media representatives, members of the diplomatic community, lawmakers and industry operators to explore practical measures for strengthening the response.

The association said it would continue to support enforcement efforts through stakeholder engagement, intelligence sharing and consumer education.