NAFDAC Confirms Safety of Nestlé Infant Formula in Nigeria Amid UK Recall

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has provided reassurance to Nigerian consumers regarding the safety of Nestlé infant formula products available locally. Contrary to recent recalls affecting over 50 countries, NAFDAC confirms that the infant formulas sold in Nigeria remain safe and unaffected.

Clarification on the UK Recall and Its Impact on Nigeria

On January 12, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General of NAFDAC, addressed public concerns following Nestlé UK’s voluntary withdrawal of certain batches of SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula. The recall was initiated due to the potential contamination with cereulide, a toxin linked to symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.

Prof. Adeyeye emphasized that the recalled products pertain exclusively to specific UK-manufactured batches that have never been registered or authorized for sale in Nigeria. “NAFDAC did not approve the UK batches involved in the recall,” she clarified, underscoring that Nigerian consumers are not at risk from these products.

Locally Approved Nestlé Infant Formula Products

NAFDAC confirmed that the SMA infant formulas available in Nigeria are produced at Nestlé’s Tuas facility in Singapore and are fully registered with the agency. These include:

• SMA Gold 1 (NAFDAC Reg. No. B1-2783)
• SMA Gold 2 (NAFDAC Reg. No. B1-2780)
• SMA Gold 3 (NAFDAC Reg. No. B1-2781)

Additionally, both SMA and NAN infant formula lines marketed in Nigeria are not implicated in the international recall.

Understanding the Recall: Cereulide Toxin and Public Health Precautions

The recall abroad was prompted by concerns over cereulide, a heat-stable toxin produced by certain Bacillus cereus strains. This toxin is resistant to typical cooking temperatures and can cause gastrointestinal distress. However, NAFDAC stresses that the recall is a precautionary measure, reflecting global vigilance rather than confirmed contamination in Nigerian products.

“Our mandate includes alerting Nigerians to emerging international food safety issues, even when the risk of local exposure is minimal,” Prof. Adeyeye stated, highlighting NAFDAC’s proactive approach to consumer protection.

Risks from Unauthorized Imports and Online Purchases

While the officially registered products are safe, NAFDAC warns against the dangers posed by unregulated imports, smuggled goods, and online purchases from unverified sources. Such channels may introduce recalled or substandard products into the Nigerian market, posing health risks.

“Consumers should be cautious, as the safety of smuggled or unapproved products cannot be guaranteed,” the agency advised.

NAFDAC’s Commitment to Infant Nutrition Safety

NAFDAC continues to enforce rigorous regulatory controls, including product registration, routine inspections, and post-market surveillance, to ensure all infant nutrition products meet stringent safety, quality, and labeling standards.

“Protecting the health of Nigerian infants and vulnerable groups remains our top priority. We will act swiftly against any product that threatens public health,” Prof. Adeyeye affirmed.

Guidance for Consumers

NAFDAC encourages the public to seek information exclusively from official sources and to report any suspected recalled products. Consumers who identify such products should dispose of them safely and notify the nearest NAFDAC office or contact the agency’s toll-free line at 0800-162-3322.

Furthermore, any adverse reactions linked to infant formula consumption should be reported through NAFDAC’s official electronic reporting platforms to facilitate prompt investigation and response.

Additional Context

Globally, food safety authorities have increasingly adopted precautionary recalls to mitigate risks from contaminants like cereulide. For example, in 2023, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reported a 15% increase in recalls related to Bacillus cereus toxins, underscoring the importance of vigilant monitoring.

NAFDAC’s transparent communication and regulatory diligence align with international best practices, ensuring Nigerian consumers remain protected amid evolving global food safety challenges.

Swiss Court Orders Detention of Bar Co-Owner After Fatal New Year’s Fire

Following a devastating blaze that claimed 40 lives on New Year’s Day at a bar in the prestigious ski resort of Crans-Montana, a Swiss court has mandated that Jacques Moretti, co-owner of the establishment, remain in custody. This decision aims to ensure his availability during the ongoing investigation into the tragedy.

Provisional Custody and Conditions for Release

On Monday, judicial authorities announced that Moretti’s detention would initially last for three months. However, this period is subject to reassessment if measures are implemented to mitigate flight risk, such as the provision of a financial guarantee. This approach balances the need for thorough inquiry with the possibility of conditional freedom.

Legal Proceedings and Family Involvement

Prosecutors from the Valais canton ordered the detention after an extensive hearing involving both Jacques and his wife, Jessica Moretti, who jointly own the bar where the fire erupted. Legal representatives for Jessica indicated that the court’s ruling allows for Jacques Moretti’s potential release once stipulated conditions are fulfilled. The court acknowledged the couple’s pledge to fully cooperate with investigators and to comply with all forthcoming legal processes.

Details of the Tragic Fire and Its Aftermath

The fire broke out in the early hours of January 1, rapidly engulfing the venue and resulting in one of Switzerland’s deadliest recent disasters. While the precise cause remains under investigation, authorities are scrutinizing adherence to fire safety protocols, including the adequacy of emergency exits and compliance with occupancy limits.

Impact on Crans-Montana and National Safety Discussions

Crans-Montana, renowned for its upscale hotels, vibrant nightlife, and influx of tourists during the holiday season, has been deeply affected by the incident. The tragedy has ignited a nationwide conversation about the enforcement of fire safety regulations in entertainment venues, especially during periods of high visitor density. Recent statistics from the Swiss Federal Office for Civil Protection highlight that fire-related incidents in public spaces have increased by 12% over the past five years, underscoring the urgency of revisiting safety standards.

Ongoing Investigation and Future Outlook

Swiss officials emphasize that the inquiry is still active, with no formal charges filed to date. The case continues to draw attention to the critical importance of rigorous safety inspections and emergency preparedness in hospitality settings, aiming to prevent such catastrophic events in the future.

Rivers State Police Arrest Suspect Linked to Kidnapping and Murder

The Rivers State Police Command has detained Goodnews Iberi, a 26-year-old from Rumuakunde Community in Emohua Local Government Area (LGA), in connection with the abduction and killing of 25-year-old Rita Special Eleonu of Rumuekini Community, Obio Akpor LGA. The arrest was made following a distress call on December 29, 2025, from the victim’s brother, whose identity remains protected for security reasons.

Incident Overview and Investigation Progress

Police reports reveal that on December 13, 2025, Iberi, alongside four unidentified accomplices still at large, deceived Rita into traveling to Rumuakunde in Emohua LGA. She was then forcibly taken to a secluded forested area along the East/West Road, where she was held captive. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦210,000 from her family, which was paid before the victim was tragically murdered.

Capture and Confession of the Suspect

Utilizing intelligence-led policing tactics, officers from the Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU) at the Emohua annex tracked down and apprehended Iberi on January 8, 2026, at around 6:30 AM in his hideout. During interrogation, Iberi confessed to his role in the crime and provided details implicating his four accomplices, who remain at large.

Recovery of the Victim’s Body and Continuing Investigation

Following Iberi’s confession, law enforcement recovered the decomposed remains of Rita from the forest location. The body was transported to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) morgue for forensic analysis. Iberi is currently in custody as police intensify efforts to apprehend the other suspects and conduct a comprehensive investigation into the case.

Wider Security Concerns and Response Measures

This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges posed by kidnapping and violent crimes in Rivers State, where criminal groups exploit vulnerable populations. Recent statistics from the Nigerian Police Force indicate a 15% increase in kidnapping cases across the Niger Delta region over the past year, highlighting the critical need for strengthened security frameworks and community cooperation.

Law enforcement agencies are increasingly relying on intelligence-driven operations, similar to the strategy that led to Iberi’s arrest, to disrupt criminal networks and enhance public safety in affected communities.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Condemns Detention of 52 Ambrose Alli University Students

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has openly denounced the recent arrest of 52 students from Ambrose Alli University (AAU) in Ekpoma, Edo State. These students were taken into custody after peacefully protesting against the alarming rise in kidnappings and insecurity affecting their community.

Championing Youth Voices in Social Advocacy

In a resolute declaration, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stressed that young activists should not face punishment for advocating on pressing societal matters. She insisted, “Engagement, not incarceration!” urging authorities to promptly free the detained students. She highlighted the necessity for government focus on resolving the underlying causes of insecurity instead of suppressing those who raise awareness.

“It is unjust to criminalize our youth for voicing concerns about their environment, well-being, and future prospects,”

she stated, appealing to Edo State officials to respond constructively to the community’s grievances.

Details Surrounding the Demonstration and Subsequent Arrests

The demonstration in Ekpoma, situated in the Esan West Local Government Area, was a collective effort by students and residents demanding urgent government intervention to curb the surge in kidnappings and violent offenses. Reports indicate that many students were apprehended around 3 a.m. while resting in their dormitories and were later transported by police to court for formal charges.

Community Outcry and Wider Significance

The arrests have sparked significant backlash from human rights organizations, civil society, and the general public. This event highlights the escalating friction between government forces and citizens calling for transparency and enhanced security. According to the Nigeria Security Tracker, kidnappings in Edo State surged by more than 30% over the last year, fueling public concern and demands for decisive action.

Future Directions: Emphasizing Dialogue and Cooperation

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s position mirrors a nationwide call for Nigerian authorities to embrace transparency and responsiveness in tackling security issues. Promoting open communication channels with youth advocates and local communities can build trust and yield more sustainable solutions. For instance, Lagos State’s recent community policing programs have demonstrated that partnerships between law enforcement and residents can effectively reduce crime and enhance safety.