The European Union (EU) has launched an investigation into the rising flow of counterfeit goods entering West Africa, identifying Nigerian seaports as key conduits for the illegal trade that extends to international markets.
According to the 2025 EU Report on the Protection and Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights in Third Countries, Nigeria has been classified among eight “Priority 3 countries” that present serious challenges to intellectual property (IP) enforcement.
Other countries in this category include Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Indonesia, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand.
Nigerian ports are increasingly serving as maritime gateways for the importation and redistribution of counterfeit goods, particularly pharmaceuticals, electronics, and fashion items.
The EU warned that these illicit goods not only undermine the integrity of international trade but also pose significant threats to consumer safety and public health.
The report specifically highlights the public health risks associated with counterfeit medical products, especially in regions with weak regulatory frameworks.
In addition, Nigeria is becoming a major hub for fake electronics and electrical goods, mainly imported from China, and re-exported across West Africa and into Europe.
“Nigeria is a transit point for fake electronics and electrical equipment produced in China for re-export to other West African economies as well as the EU,” the report stated.
Beyond acting as a transit hub, Nigeria is also listed as an exporter of counterfeit goods. The EU, referencing a joint OECD-EUIPO study titled Global Trade in Fakes, identified Nigeria as a source of fake leather products, footwear, handbags, perfumes, cosmetics, and apparel.
While acknowledging some progress by Nigerian authorities in improving IP legislation and enforcement, the EU report outlines persistent systemic issues.
These include lengthy litigation processes, insufficient technical expertise, bureaucratic delays, and under-resourced institutions, all of which hinder effective protection of intellectual property rights.
The report also noted Nigeria’s slow pace in ratifying critical international agreements, such as the Madrid Protocol for the international registration of trademarks and the Geneva Act of the Hague Agreement for industrial designs.
The EU emphasized that aligning with these global frameworks would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s IP protection system.
This warning comes at a time when Nigeria is positioning itself as a regional economic leader and working to expand international trade relationships.
However, the EU cautioned that without comprehensive institutional reforms and enhanced enforcement, Nigeria risks remaining a major route for counterfeit goods, potentially weakening regional trade and global partnerships.
The report further pointed out that these IP concerns are particularly relevant for countries engaged in, or preparing for, free trade agreements with the EU, underscoring the need for continuous monitoring and cooperation.
