Business
INVESTIGATION: China floods northern Nigerian markets with unregulated monosodium glutamate products (MSG)
INVESTIGATION: China floods northern Nigerian markets with unregulated monosodium glutamate products (MSG)
As early as 8 a.m. on Saturday and despite the blaring of vehicles’ hoots and noises from all over the place, Alhaji Aminu – a wholesale dealer at Kano’s Singer market – is busy and perhaps overwhelmed attending to a horde of customers seeking to buy one item or the other.
Singer is Kano’s largest commodities market situated along Ibrahim Taiwo Road.
As Aminu and a number of his workers are taking orders from the customers many of whom are women, others are arriving and forming a queue.
A large number of those coming to his shop are demanding a particular product – unbranded monosodium glutamate.
A made-in-China product – Fufeng monosodium glutamate is what many are looking for.
Already, a corner of Aminu’s store is filled with one of the products in 25kg bags, yet, there is a two-wheeled cart waiting outside to offload more. Despite what looks like an overwhelming situation, Aminu is having a good day and he says it has always been like that because “people want the product”.
To some of the customers, including retailers, unbranded monosodium glutamate products like Fufeng are cheap and affordable.
At the Singer market, Fufeng and another unbranded MSG, Wuyi, are popular. But Fufeng appears to be the most sought-after. Consumers say the items have been in the market alongside branded products for some years now.
What is MSG
MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is a flavor-enhancing food additive used in Asian cooking, fast foods, and commercially packaged food products. It is a white crystal-like substance in use for over 100 years.
Among locals in northern Nigeria, white additives in crystal form are known as “Farin Maggi”, regardless of the brand. Consumers in the south call it “white Maggi”.
“Fufeng MSG” is ahead of the known and branded bagged ones in the market. On the side of the bag of the MSG is written “Produced by Fufeng”, with “Country of Origin: China,” as an addendum to the information. Wuyi, the rival product is also made in China.
No mark of authorization
Funfeng and other unbranded MSG products being sold in the Nigerian market have no mark of authorization from the government’s regulatory agencies.
The packaging also does not bear the insignia of the National Agency for Foods Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) that certifies such products as fit for human consumption and there is no mark of the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) on it.
According to Mojisola Adeyeye, director general (DG) of NAFDAC, any unregistered food is not guaranteed by the agency. “It is fake food. It was most likely smuggled into the country,” Adeyeye warned.
The agency is mandated to give permits and authorization for the importation of foods and chemicals into the country.
‘’For safety and security concerns, NAFDAC does end-to-end monitoring for all chemicals. We request distribution and utilization patterns before we give importers permits to import chemicals,” Adeyeye was quoted as saying in a report.
“We must know who you have sold the chemicals to in your report. These are the things you must clarify to us before we give approval for a permit to clear chemical consignments.’’
The rush for unbranded MSGs
The boom in the sale of the product is happening two years after unauthorised chemicals killed three persons in Kano after consuming adulterated flavored milk.
Three persons were arrested by NAFDAC after the agency discovered the chemicals were used as additives in the flavored milk that the victims consumed.
Each day, as many as 20 customers demand the unbranded MSG product from Aminu’s store — though the 25kg is not certified by NAFDAC for home use, those who order it at the Singer market use it for retail and domestic purposes. Operators of big restaurants in the city are said to be among big buyers.
It comes cheaper at N43,000 per 25kg and allows wholesalers and retailers to sell in small units, including measuring in what locals call “modu” – local parlance for a unit of measurement.
In a bag, there are as many as 10 to 15 mudu, according to a dealer who asked not to be named.
What determines the preference of customers for these unbranded products, he added, are the number of mudus and the flexibility to adulterate the product by mixing with salt so as to increase bulk and make more profit, this paves the way for adulteration with any other cheap white powdery substance
“So your customers know what you’re bringing… but the most acceptable in the market is one with the highest number of mudu. The higher the number of mudu and purity of the MSG, the higher the price,” he said.
Aminu testifies that the product is easily affordable for customers.
“The price of 25kg Fufeng monosodium glutamate in my shop is 43,000, but for you as a new customer, I can do a discount for you and sell it to you at the price of 42,000. I want to establish a good relationship with you, so that you may come back to me and buy more,” he told this reporter as he showed the product.
“Before you sell one carton of the branded one, you sell five sacks of the unbranded product.”
From Lagos to Kano, Fufeng and others like it have found their way to nearly all the northern markets.
The infiltration started a few years ago, according to people at Singer market. But the products have gained popularity and acceptance among households now. They are also sold in the Abubakar Rimi market (Sabon Gari market).
It is not clear how they scaled the scrutiny of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). But dealers say it comes in trucks as supplies by some businessmen that they declined to name.
The merchant confirmed that many brought these products into the country through illegal routes. “And if you have to follow the legal field then you have to have a link with the company (that produces sachets) for approval,” he said.
Aminu corroborates this claim – he admits the products are imported through Lagos but does not reveal the identities of the importers.
“We are getting the supply of it from Lagos because this is not a Nigeria-made product,” Aminu said.
“This unbranded product is very popular. In the past, only people from rural areas were using it, but now everyone buys it.”
Like Aminu, Alhaji Bashir who is also a popular dealer of the MSG in the market confirmed that Lagos is the origin of the product. “The product is made in China, not Nigeria,” he retorted.
“I order it from Lagos whenever I sell out the ones that are in my shop. Lagos is the source of this product. People buy this product more. That is why we are selling it.”
At the market, there are retailers like Alhaji Dini who sell it in small packets for average people who cannot buy 25kg.
At his shop, he measures in “mudu” which is N4,650. “I’m not a dealer; I am selling it to average people who cannot afford 25kg,” he said as he showed off the small units packaged in a white cellophane bag.
“One bowl of this product is N4,650. It depends on the needs of the customers. Even if they come with N300, there is something for them. The price starts from N300 and above.
“I buy 25kg and sell it in small packets to people who cannot afford 25kg. My price starts from N300 and above. You know this one is cheaper compared to the branded one.”
When he was asked if he knew that the product was not meant for domestic use and could be harmful to human health, he replied “No”.
“How can you tell me this is not safe for use? Dini quipped. “This cannot happen. People have been using it for cooking. This is not the only thing I sell here. There are branded ones and different types of products.”
But Amina Kamal, a food vendor in the Sabon Gari area of Kano has no worries using the MSG. Amina said she uses it in her cooking because it gives a good taste to the food.
“I use it for my cooking and sometimes I buy the branded one. But honestly, this one is cheaper than the branded ones. That is why we use it,” she said.
“This product is for people to use and cook. People like us enjoy using it because of the taste.”
Sadiya Kamilu, a housewife who was at the market to pick daily needs for her family said the product is very good for cooking, which is why she prefers it.
“I use it for my cooking because it gives a good taste to the food, and it is cheaper,” Sadiya said.
“I don’t think it is harmful but I heard people say that. But that does not stop me, because I don’t believe it.”
FCPC vows to track unbranded products
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has indicated an interest in tracking all the unbranded and unauthorised MSG products across the commodities markets in Kano.
The FCPC is charged with the responsibility of promoting fair business practices and safeguarding the interests of consumers.
According to Boladale Adeyinka, the FCCPC director of surveillance and investigation, the commission would send its teams and secure samples.
“It has come to the attention of the FCCPC and we are sending our surveillance team to confirm and secure samples,” she said in a reply to inquiries by this reporter.
“Where there is a need for emergency intervention, we would provide urgent and interim interventions. We will also provide updates.”
Adeyinka said her office is responsible for market surveillance and investigation, which are “vital tools for protecting consumers when violations occur”.
Integrated System and Devices Limited Achieves IMS Certification
Integrated System and Devices Limited (ISDL), a major provider of electronic security solutions, is delighted to announce the successful attainment of ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 certifications following a rigorous audit process conducted by Bureau Veritas Certification Holdings SAS-UK Branch.
In 2021, ISDL bagged the Quality management systems ISO 9001:2015, and now in 2024, with unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, the occupational Health and Safety system ISO 45001:2018 and the Environmental management system ISO 14001:2015 have been consolidated to form an Integrated Management System.
These certifications, covering ISDL’s headquarters and branches, signify the company’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality management across all facets of its operations. According to Engr. Oluseun Mabogunje, the Managing Director of ISDL, the scope of the certifications encompasses the design, procurement, supply, installation, integration, maintenance, and after-sales support of various electronic security and Extra Low Voltage (ELV) equipment.
Engr. Mabogunje expressed his elation at receiving the IMS certifications, emphasizing ISDL’s dedication to delivering exceptional quality and service to its clientele. He emphasized that this achievement underscores the company’s ongoing pursuit of continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.
ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 are internationally recognized standards for Quality, Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental management systems, emphasizing a process-based approach to meeting customer requirements and enhancing satisfaction, protecting the environment and also providing safe and healthy working conditions to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses among our employees, contractors and visitors. ISDL’s certification demonstrates its ability to consistently provide products and services that not only meet regulatory requirements but also exceed customer expectations.
Engr. Mabogunje extended profound gratitude to the workforce for their contribution to this achievement, attributing it to their team spirit and unwavering dedication to hard work, resilience and excellence. He urged the staff to continue offering top-notch services to their clients.
About Integrated System and Devices Limited (ISDL):
Integrated System & Devices Limited (ISDL), incorporated in 1988, is a leading provider of Electronic Low Voltage(ELV) and Security systems, that provides a total turnkey service for the design, supply, installation and continued effectiveness of security systems for medium and high-risk locations. ISDL has over 30 years’ history in the delivery of professional electronic security services in integration, maintenance and after sales support of various electronic security and related equipment. ISDL has her head Office in Lagos, and two branch offices in Abuja and Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
For more information about ISDL, please visit www.isdlnig.com
*Festus Keyamo and His Brand Of Administrative Activism*
By Philip Agbese
Festus Keyamo, the enigmatic figure at the helm of Nigeria’s aviation sector, has been a subject of both admiration and controversy. His unconventional approach to governance has polarised opinions, with some hailing him as a visionary leader and others questioning his methods. As the Aviation Minister, Keyamo has been unapologetically vocal about his commitment to reforming the industry, but his fervour for change has often been met with scepticism and resistance.
Of truth, one can not discuss Festus Keyamo without acknowledging his unyielding dedication to Nigeria. His admirable cockiness and unwavering patriotism and willingness to stand up for what he believes in are undeniable. Keyamo’s refusal to conform to the traditional norms of governance has earned him both admirers and detractors. Some argue that his zealousness is a breath of fresh air in a landscape rife with bureaucratic red tape, while others caution that his approach may be too radical for the delicate political ecosystem of Nigeria.
Being a proponent of grassroots empowerment, he believes that the voices of ordinary citizens must be heard in the corridors of power. To this end, he has worked tirelessly to mobilise communities, educate citizens on their rights, and empower them to demand better governance. Keyamo’s grassroots activism has inspired many Nigerians to take a more active role in shaping the country’s political future.
Festus Keyamo’s brand of administrative activism is not for the faint of heart. His willingness to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of conventional governance is both commendable and disconcerting. While some laud his boldness, others fear that it may lead to unintended repercussions. Keyamo’s unapologetic stance has drawn comparisons to other historical figures who were willing to sacrifice everything for their ideals.
However, it is essential to consider the lessons from history. Keyamo’s determination to die for Nigeria, while admirable, should be tempered with caution. The case of Muammar Gaddafi serves as a cautionary tale. Gaddafi’s desire to die for Africa ultimately led to his downfall, as he was betrayed by his people.
Keyamo must be mindful of the potential consequences of such extreme rhetoric and ensure that his actions align with the best interests of the Nigerian people. It is crucial to tread carefully when treading such uncharted territory, especially in a country as complex and volatile as Nigeria.
Keyamo’s purported readiness to “die for Nigeria” is a testament to his unwavering commitment, but it also raises concerns about the potential consequences of such uncompromising dedication. History is replete with examples of individuals who staked everything on their convictions, only to face betrayal and disillusionment. It is a cautionary tale that should not be dismissed lightly.
Due to his fearlessness in the face of adversity, another facet of Keyamo’s administrative activism is his commitment to the rule of law, and this has earned him more political enemies than friends. He firmly believes that all individuals, regardless of their status or wealth, should be subject to the same legal standards. Throughout his career, he has faced numerous challenges and threats due to his outspokenness and activism.
Keyamo has been a vocal advocate for judicial reform in Nigeria, pushing for greater independence and efficiency in the country’s legal system. Despite these obstacles, Keyamo has remained steadfast in his commitment to social justice and human rights. His courage and determination have inspired many others to join him in the fight for a more just and equitable society. His efforts have helped to strengthen the rule of law and ensure that justice is served fairly and impartially.
The call for Keyamo to ”wake up” and recognise the realities of Nigeria is a poignant one. The complexities of the Nigerian political landscape can not be underestimated, and Keyamo needs to navigate these intricacies with prudence. While his passion for Nigeria is unquestionable, this fervour must be tempered with a deep understanding of the nuanced challenges facing the nation. An understanding of the fact that sources of progressive change and growth like his are mostly suffocated to die prematurely, or attacked ferociously till they fade into oblivion should be something he must have to consider seriously in his journey.
Setting aside the fervour surrounding Festus Keyamo’s zealousness, it is crucial to examine his impact as the Aviation Minister. His reforms in the sector have been both ambitious and divisive. Keyamo’s efforts to modernise and revitalise Nigeria’s aviation industry have been met with a mixed reception. While many applaud his bold initiatives, others express apprehension about the potential pitfalls of such rapid change. It’s not farfetched that the latter are people who have a penchant for the continuity of rascality and corruption, which have bedevilled the aviation sector for a long time.
Moving beyond Keyamo’s convictions, it is crucial to note that, during his tenure, Keyamo implemented several reforms aimed at improving the aviation sector in Nigeria. These reforms have had a significant impact on various aspects of the industry, including safety standards, infrastructure development, and operational efficiency.
One of Keyamo’s notable achievements was the introduction of stricter safety regulations. Under his leadership, the Aviation Ministry implemented measures to enhance safety protocols, ensuring that Nigerian airports and airlines adhere to international standards. This has not only improved the safety of air travel within the country but has also bolstered Nigeria’s reputation in the global aviation community.
Furthermore, Keyamo prioritised infrastructure development in the aviation sector. He spearheaded projects aimed at expanding and modernizing airports across the country, improving connectivity and facilitating economic growth. These infrastructure investments have not only enhanced the travel experience for passengers but have also attracted foreign investment and boosted tourism.
Keyamo’s reforms also focused on improving operational efficiency within the aviation sector. He introduced measures to streamline processes, reduce bureaucracy, and enhance transparency. These efforts have resulted in smoother operations, reduced delays, and improved customer service, benefiting both passengers and industry stakeholders.
It is important to acknowledge that Festus Keyamo’s vision for Nigeria’s aviation sector is driven by a genuine desire to propel the nation towards progress. His determination to address longstanding issues and overhaul outdated practices is a testament to his commitment to effect positive change. However, the path to reform is fraught with challenges, and Keyamo must navigate these obstacles with caution and foresight.
While his unwavering commitment to Nigeria is commendable, he must be cautious of the lessons from history and ensure that his actions align with the best interests of the Nigerian people. As the Aviation Minister, Keyamo has implemented significant reforms that have positively impacted the aviation sector. His focus on safety, infrastructure development, and operational efficiency has yielded tangible results, improving the travel experience and bolstering Nigeria’s reputation in the global aviation community.
Time will be kind to tell us how Festus Keyamo’s legacy will be one of the unyielding triumphs in the annals of Nigeria’s history. Generations will look back in time to remember that man who worked great wonders in the aviation sector, leaving so much for us to gain from his stewardship in the aviation sector.
As the nation continues to navigate its challenges, leaders like Keyamo must strike a delicate balance between passion and pragmatism, ensuring that their efforts lead to sustainable and inclusive development for all Nigerians.
Agbese MHR is the Deputy Spokesperson, 10th House of Representatives writing from Abuja.
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