Track-and-trace has become a cornerstone technology in the fight against counterfeit goods — especially in sectors where public health and safety are at risk. Nigeria’s 2025 discussions highlighted sector-specific vulnerabilities and how technology is filling the gaps.

1. Pharmaceuticals: The Highest-Risk Sector

Nigeria’s healthcare faces heavy infiltration.
Case studies showed:

• mobile-first drug authentication (AI + QR)

• national-level traceability reducing counterfeit circulation

• regulator-led verification platforms (modeled after Turkey’s ITS)

Key insight:
AI mobile authentication increased real-time consumer trust and reduced fake drugs in circulation.

2. Agrochemicals: The Underestimated Crisis

Counterfeit pesticides harm soil, crops, and farmer income.
Experts highlighted:

• chemical sector is deeply infiltrated

• counterfeit coatings affect construction and healthcare

Track-and-trace enables:

• verification by farmers

• government monitoring of product movement

• prevention of toxic counterfeit inputs

3. FMCG: Packaging Theft & Repacking Are Major Threats

Panel insights revealed FMCG-specific risks:

• packaging stolen before sealing

• genuine products diluted and resealed

• authentication features copied

• blockchain + IoT helping in real-time monitoring

4. Automotive & Electronics: Safety and Liability Concerns

Counterfeit automotive parts cause mechanical failures.
Electronics counterfeiting leads to fire hazards.

Industry voices stressed:

• need for tamper-proof labels

• distributor-level serialization

• secure documents for importation

Track-and-trace is transforming Nigeria’s highest-risk industries. The sectors that adopt these tools early will reduce market infiltration, improve consumer safety, and strengthen competitiveness under AfCFTA.