The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has issued a public alert warning Nigerians about the circulation of counterfeit Kiss condoms in various markets across the country. According to NAFDAC, the fake condoms pose serious public health risks due to their poor quality, lack of sterilization, and absence of regulation.
The alert, issued via a public notice on Monday, stated that the information was received from DKT International Nigeria, a leading non-governmental organization focused on contraceptive social marketing. The fake Kiss Condoms have been reported to be found in several markets, including Onitsha Market, Idumota Market, Trade Fair Market, and various markets in Kano, Abuja, Uyo, Gombe, Enugu, and others.
NAFDAC explained that Kiss Condom is a brand of male latex condoms designed to prevent unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, gonorrhea, and syphilis. However, the circulation of counterfeit versions undermines their protective purpose. The agency provided detailed guidelines to help consumers distinguish genuine Kiss condoms from fake ones, including differences in packaging, labeling, and physical characteristics.
The original Kiss condom box contains clear instructions, storage, and caution information, complete manufacturer and medical device details, and a lighter-colored packaging with a visible condom image. In contrast, the fake versions have no additional information on the side of the box, a darker color, and incorrect manufacturer’s address.
NAFDAC also identified differences in the condom packs themselves, with original Kiss packs being light red and having the brand name written closely across six lines, while the counterfeit packs are darker and have the name loosely written across five lines. 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.
The use of fake condoms poses serious health risks, including breakage, infection, allergic reactions, and false security. NAFDAC has directed all its zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance and mop up the falsified Kiss condoms from markets nationwide. The agency advised healthcare professionals and consumers to report suspected cases of substandard or falsified medicines and medical devices to the nearest NAFDAC office. To ensure safety, only genuine, quality-assured condoms from approved manufacturers should be used.
