By Rabiu Sanusi
The Kano State Consumer Protection Council (KSCPC) has commenced a series of far-reaching reforms aimed at strengthening consumer protection, improving service delivery and curbing the circulation of fake and substandard products across the state.
The Executive Secretary of the Council, Dr. Ibrahim Garba Muhammad, disclosed this while highlighting the achievements and reforms introduced since assuming office, noting that the agency is being repositioned into a modern and efficient regulatory institution.
Dr. Muhammad said the Council’s priority is to ensure effective protection of consumers’ rights while promoting fair and responsible business practices among traders and manufacturers.
He explained that one of the first steps taken under his leadership was the restructuring of the Council’s workforce through strategic redeployment based on competence and efficiency.
“We inherited a system that required urgent reforms. Our priority was to place capable personnel in positions where they can effectively deliver on the Council’s mandate,” he said.
The Executive Secretary added that the Council has organised capacity-building programmes for staff and engaged traders, business associations and other stakeholders to improve awareness of consumer protection laws and encourage compliance.
He revealed that the agency has also strengthened partnerships with key institutions, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and security agencies to enhance the fight against fake, adulterated and unsafe products.
As part of efforts to modernise its operations, Dr. Muhammad said the Council has launched an official website to improve access to information, digital documentation and complaint management.
He added that public awareness campaigns have been intensified across Kano State to educate residents about their consumer rights and encourage peaceful resolution of disputes between buyers and sellers.
According to him, dedicated hotline numbers have also been introduced to allow residents report complaints directly to the Council for quick intervention.
Dr. Muhammad commended the Kano State Government for creating a conducive environment that allows the Council to operate effectively and independently.
He noted that the agency continues to collaborate with consumer protection institutions in other states to exchange ideas and adopt best practices.
The Executive Secretary disclosed that the Council has received over 200 consumer complaints since he assumed office, while about 50 substandard products have been confiscated as part of efforts to protect public health.
He assured residents that more reforms would soon be introduced to improve the Council’s effectiveness, adding that the agency remains committed to transparency, professionalism and fairness.
Dr. Muhammad also emphasised the independence of the Council, stating that no government official has attempted to interfere with its investigations or operations.
He urged residents to support the Council by reporting fake, expired or unsafe products, stressing that public cooperation is essential in protecting consumers and ensuring a safe marketplace.
He expressed confidence that with continued commitment and professionalism, the Council would succeed in eliminating harmful business practices and safeguarding the interests of Kano residents.
