386
By Daniel Adaji
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised the alarm over the circulation of counterfeit Kiss condoms in major markets across Nigeria.
It warned that the fake products pose serious public health risks and undermine protection against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
In a public alert issued on Monday via X (Public Alert No. 042/2025), the agency said it received the information from the Marketing Authorisation Holder, DKT International Nigeria, describing it as “a leading non-governmental organisation focused on contraceptive social marketing.”
NAFDAC disclosed that the counterfeit products have been found in Onitsha Market, Idumota Market, Trade Fair Market, as well as markets in Kano, Abuja, Uyo, Gombe, Enugu and other locations nationwide.
“The Fake Kiss Condom has been reported to be found in Onitsha Market, Idumota Market, Trade Fair Market, and various markets in Kano, Abuja, Uyo, Gombe, Enugu, and others,” the agency said.
Kiss Condom, NAFDAC explained, is a brand of male latex condoms designed to prevent unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, gonorrhoea and syphilis. It warned, however, that the spread of counterfeit versions undermines their protective purpose.
To help consumers identify genuine products, the agency outlined clear differences between original and fake Kiss condoms.
According to NAFDAC, the authentic Kiss condom box carries clear instructions, storage and caution information, complete manufacturer and medical device details, and features lighter-coloured packaging with a visible condom image.
By contrast, it said fake versions reportedly have “no additional information on the side of the box. The box is darker in colour. The picture on the box is darker in colour. The inside of some of the boxes is plain white. No condom Image. Address is wrong – 42, Montgomery Road, Yaba, Lagos. The manufacturer’s address is incomplete. No storage and caution information.”
NAFDAC also pointed to differences on the condom packs themselves, noting that original Kiss packs are light red, with the brand name written closely across six lines. The counterfeit packs, it said, are darker, with the name loosely written across five lines and a longer condom strip.
Further distinctions were identified in the wallet packaging and the physical characteristics of the condoms. The agency noted that genuine Kiss condoms are larger, oval-shaped, more lubricated and have a larger teat end, while the fake versions are thinner, rounder, less lubricated and have smaller teat ends.
Highlighting the dangers, NAFDAC warned that the use of counterfeit condoms exposes users to serious health risks due to poor quality, lack of sterilisation and absence of regulation.
“The use of fake condoms poses serious health risks due to poor quality, lack of sterilisation, and absence of regulation, leading to ineffective protection against pregnancy and STIs. Risks include breakage, infection, allergic reactions, and false security.
“To ensure safety, only genuine, quality-assured condoms from approved manufacturers should be used,” the agency urged.
As part of its response, NAFDAC said it has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance and remove the falsified Kiss condoms from markets across the country.
The agency also advised healthcare professionals and consumers to report suspected cases of substandard or falsified medicines and medical devices to the nearest NAFDAC office.