The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has issued a warning to Nigerians over the circulation of counterfeit Kiss condoms in several markets across the country, cautioning that the fake products pose serious public health risks.
In a public alert released on Monday, NAFDAC said the information was provided by DKT International Nigeria, the marketing authorisation holder for Kiss condoms and a non-governmental organisation involved in contraceptive social marketing.
According to the agency, the counterfeit products have been discovered in major commercial centres, including Onitsha and Idumota markets, Trade Fair Market, as well as markets in Kano, Abuja, Uyo, Gombe and Enugu, among others.
NAFDAC explained that Kiss condoms are male latex condoms designed to prevent unwanted pregnancies and protect against sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, gonorrhoea and syphilis. It warned that the presence of fake versions compromises their protective function.
“The circulation of falsified Kiss condoms undermines their intended purpose and exposes users to significant health risks,” the agency stated.
To help consumers identify genuine products, NAFDAC outlined key differences between original and counterfeit Kiss condoms.
The agency said authentic Kiss condom packs contain clear usage instructions, storage and caution information, as well as complete manufacturer and medical device details, and are packaged in lighter-coloured boxes with visible condom images.
In contrast, NAFDAC said the fake versions often lack basic information on the packaging, have darker-coloured boxes, incorrect or incomplete manufacturer addresses, and no storage or caution details.
“Some counterfeit packs have plain white interiors with no condom image, while the manufacturer’s address is either wrong or incomplete,” NAFDAC noted.
Differences were also identified in the individual condom packs and the physical appearance of the condoms.
According to the agency, genuine Kiss condom packs are light red with the brand name printed closely across six lines, while the fake packs are darker, with loosely written text across five lines.
NAFDAC added that original Kiss condoms are typically larger, oval-shaped, well-lubricated and have a larger teat end, unlike the counterfeit versions, which are thinner, less lubricated and smaller in size.
Warning of the dangers associated with using fake condoms, the agency said poor quality, lack of sterilisation and absence of regulation could lead to condom breakage, infections, allergic reactions and false protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
“The use of fake condoms poses serious health risks and may result in ineffective protection against pregnancy and STIs,” the agency warned, urging Nigerians to purchase only quality-assured condoms from approved sources.
NAFDAC said it has instructed its zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify market surveillance and remove the counterfeit products nationwide. The agency also encouraged healthcare professionals and members of the public to report suspected cases of substandard or falsified medical products to the nearest NAFDAC office.
