Nigeria’s seaports under scrutiny as EU flags role in counterfeit trade

Nigeria’s seaports have come under renewed international scrutiny as the European Union released a report identifying the country as a major gateway for counterfeit goods entering West Africa and beyond.

In its 2025 Report on the Protection and Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights in Third Countries,the EU classified Nigeria among eight “Priority 3” countries with serious intellectual property (IP) enforcement challenges. The report warns that Nigerian ports are key transit points for counterfeit pharmaceuticals,electronics,fashion items,and other goods,many of which originate from China and are re-exported across Africa and into Europe. “Nigeria’s large seaports serve as maritime gateways for importing fake products to West Africa,including falsified medical products,” the EU stated,citing growing public health and trade risks.

Despite Nigeria’s recent efforts — including a national IP policy launched in 2022 and legislative reforms — the EU expressed concern over slow implementation,outdated registry systems,and under-resourced enforcement agencies. The country has yet to ratify key international treaties,further weakening its IP protection framework. The report also emphasized the economic implications for Europe,where IPR-intensive sectors contribute over 80% of exports. Without decisive institutional reforms and stronger enforcement,Brussels warned,Nigeria risks remaining a hub for illicit trade,undermining its aspirations for deeper global trade partnerships and regional leadership.