Former Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr. Tunde Irukera, has highlighted persistent challenges facing Nigeria’s consumer protection framework, warning that gaps in enforcement, consumer awareness, and institutional capacity continue to limit progress.
Speaking in an interview with Nairametrics, Irukera explained that while Nigeria has made strides in establishing laws and regulatory structures to safeguard consumers, the practical realities of implementation remain difficult. According to him, weak compliance by businesses, inadequate funding for oversight agencies, and a lack of widespread consumer education have created an uneven playing field.
Irukera noted that many Nigerians are unaware of their rights, which leaves them vulnerable to exploitation in critical sectors such as finance, aviation, telecommunications, and healthcare. He stressed that effective consumer protection requires not only strong legal frameworks but also active participation from the public in demanding accountability.
He further emphasized that regulatory agencies must strengthen monitoring systems and collaborate more closely with civil society groups to ensure businesses uphold fair trade practices. “Consumer protection is not just about laws on paper—it is about building a culture where companies know they will be held accountable and consumers know they have recourse when wronged,” he said.
Industry observers say Irukera’s insights are particularly timely as Nigeria grapples with rising inflation, energy costs, and service delivery gaps that directly impact households and businesses. Strengthening consumer protection, they argue, will be critical in ensuring fairness and rebuilding trust in the marketplace.
