Crackdown on rising fake wine syndicates —Stakeholders tell Nigerian govt

Stakeholders have urged the Nigerian government to urgently crack down on the spike in the rate of fake and illicit wines and spirits drinks in the country.

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They made this demand at an event in Abuja on Wednesday.

In his remarks at the event, the president of the Spirits and Wines Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Micheal Ehindero, emphasized the urgency of collective action while rallying stakeholders against the menace.

“Illicit trade in spirits and wines is not just an industry issue—it is a national concern. It undermines consumer safety, erodes government revenue, and distorts fair competition. Today’s engagement reinforces that sustainable solutions will only come from coordinated efforts across government, industry, and enforcement agencies,” Ehindero stated.

Also speaking, Director-General of the Association, Tony Okwoju, highlighted the importance of curbing illicit wines and spirits in Nigeria.

He said 40 percent of wines and drinks consumed in Nigeria are fake and illicit.

“Illicit drinks in Nigeria stand at 40 percent. This suggests that for every five bottles of spirits and wines drunk, two are illicit,” he said.

In his address, the Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Council, FCCPC, Tunji Bello, hailed the association for canvassing against the illicit trade of wines and spirits in the country.