The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians over the sale and distribution of counterfeit Kiss condoms in several markets across the country, citing serious public health concerns.
In a public alert released on Monday via its official X handle (Public Alert No. 042/2025), NAFDAC disclosed that the information was provided by the Marketing Authorisation Holder, DKT International Nigeria, a leading non-governmental organisation involved in contraceptive social marketing.
According to the agency, fake Kiss condoms have been reported in major markets, including Onitsha Market, Idumota Market, Trade Fair Market, as well as markets across Kano, Abuja, Uyo, Gombe, Enugu, and other locations nationwide.
Risks Associated with Counterfeit Condoms
NAFDAC explained that Kiss Condom is a brand of male latex condoms designed to prevent unwanted pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV, gonorrhoea, and syphilis. However, the circulation of counterfeit products significantly compromises these protective functions.
“The use of fake condoms poses serious health risks due to poor quality, lack of sterilisation, and absence of regulatory oversight,” the agency warned. “These risks include condom breakage, infections, allergic reactions, and a false sense of protection against pregnancy and STIs.”
How to Identify Genuine and Fake Kiss Condoms
To help consumers avoid counterfeit products, NAFDAC provided clear guidelines for distinguishing original Kiss condoms from fake versions.
Genuine Kiss condom packaging features:
- Clear instructions for use, storage, and caution
- Complete manufacturer and medical device details
- Lighter-coloured packaging with a visible condom image
Counterfeit versions, on the other hand:
- Lack additional information on the sides of the box
- Have darker-coloured packaging and images
- May contain plain white interiors with no condom image
- Display incorrect or incomplete manufacturer addresses, including an inaccurate address listed as 42, Montgomery Road, Yaba, Lagos
- Omit storage and caution information
On the condom packs themselves, NAFDAC noted that original Kiss packs are light red, with the brand name written closely across six lines, while fake packs are darker, with the name loosely written across five lines and a longer condom strip.
Differences were also observed in wallet packaging and the physical appearance of the condoms. Genuine Kiss condoms are described as larger, oval-shaped, well-lubricated, and having a larger teat end, whereas counterfeit versions are thinner, rounder, less lubricated, and have smaller teat ends.
Regulatory Action and Public Advisory
NAFDAC disclosed that it has instructed all zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance efforts and remove falsified Kiss condoms from markets across the country.
The agency also urged healthcare professionals, distributors, and consumers to promptly report any suspected cases of substandard or falsified medicines and medical devices to the nearest NAFDAC office.
Reiterating its advisory, NAFDAC stressed that only genuine, quality-assured condoms from approved manufacturers should be used to ensure effective protection and safeguard public health.