NAFDAC Warns Nigerians Against Circulation of Counterfeit Kiss Condoms Nationwide

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public health alert warning Nigerians about the circulation and sale of counterfeit Kiss brand condoms in major markets across the country, describing the development as a serious threat to sexual and reproductive health as well as ongoing efforts to prevent sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies.

The warning was contained in a statement published on the agency’s website on Monday and referenced as Public Alert No. 042/2025, following information received from DKT International Nigeria, a leading non-governmental organisation involved in contraceptive social marketing and HIV/AIDS prevention.

NAFDAC said the fake products were discovered across several key markets, including Onitsha Market, Idumota Market, Trade Fair Market, as well as markets in Kano, Abuja, Uyo, Gombe, Enugu and other parts of the country, raising concerns about the widespread distribution network of the counterfeit condoms.

The agency explained that Kiss condom is a male latex condom brand designed to provide protection against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, gonorrhoea and syphilis, stressing that the circulation of substandard versions undermines public confidence and exposes users to avoidable health risks.

NAFDAC warned that the counterfeit versions pose serious dangers due to poor quality control, lack of sterilisation, inadequate lubrication, wrong labelling and the absence of regulatory compliance, noting that such defects increase the risk of condom breakage, infections, allergic reactions and ineffective protection.

“The counterfeit Kiss condoms differ significantly from the authentic product in terms of packaging, labelling, colour shade, manufacturer address details and the absence of proper medical device information and caution instructions,” the agency stated.

“The fake versions are often packaged in darker, poorly designed packs with distorted inscriptions, incorrect or incomplete manufacturer addresses, barcode inconsistencies, thinner latex material, smaller teat ends and reduced lubrication when compared to the genuine product,” NAFDAC added.

The agency disclosed that its zonal and state offices have been directed to intensify surveillance and mop-up operations nationwide to remove the counterfeit condoms from circulation, while urging distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals and consumers to remain vigilant and source medical products only from licensed and authorised outlets.