NAFDAC Storms Nasarawa, Closes 4 Illegal Rice Mills And Beverage Depot

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sealed four local rice mills located in the Autabalefi area, Masaka main market, and Masaka motor park in Nasarawa State.

The announcement was made via the agency’s official handle on (formerly Twitter) on Thursday.

During the enforcement exercise, NAFDAC operatives also seized branded empty rice bags bearing the names of popular brands like Royal Stallion, Tomato, Big Bull, and BUA Rice, which were allegedly intended for repackaging substandard or unregistered rice.

In a separate development, the agency also halted operations at the Nigerian Breweries’ Masaka Depot due to improper storage conditions. Officials found that beverages were left outside and exposed to direct sunlight, raising concerns over product safety and hygiene.

NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health, stating that all food and beverages sold in the market must meet established safety standards.

Meanwhile, House of Representatives member, Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, has called on affected drug market traders to submit formal petitions if they experienced extortion during NAFDAC’s recent clampdown.

The Badagry Federal Constituency lawmaker acknowledged the agency’s regulatory authority but emphasized that corruption or extortion would not be condoned.

His remarks followed viral videos alleging extortion by NAFDAC officials in recently shut markets, including Onitsha Head Bridge Market and Idumota Drug Market in Lagos, where some traders were reportedly fined.

In response, NAFDAC clarified on Tuesday that penalties were imposed uniformly and that due process was followed across all affected locations.