NAFDAC Seals Kano Warehouse Stocked With Explosive Chemicals

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sealed off a warehouse in Kwakwachi, Fagge Local Government Area, Kano State, after discovering over 88,560 litres of dangerous industrial chemicals suspected to be capable of producing explosives.

During an inspection on Wednesday, NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye called the discovery “deeply concerning,” warning that the sheer volume of chemicals posed a major public safety threat.

According to Dr. Martins Iluyomade, Director of Investigation and Enforcement at NAFDAC:

• 60,000 litres of sulphuric acid (90.5% concentration)

• 28,560 litres of nitric acid (68% concentration)

• 330 empty jerricans, suggesting prior distribution to unknown parties

“What we have seen here is mind-boggling. I don’t think I have ever seen this quantity of concentrated nitric and sulphuric acid together in one place like this before,” Prof. Adeyeye said.

The warehouse, which was still in operation at the time of the raid, was manned by a single employee, the warehouse manager, who was promptly arrested. The alleged owner remains at large.

NAFDAC confirmed that the warehouse operator is not registered as a licensed chemical marketer. The agency maintains a controlled chemical database, used to monitor the importation, distribution, and disposal of such high-risk substances.

“These acids are not to be handled by just anybody,” said Adeyeye. “Importing such chemicals requires security clearance from the National Security Adviser and permits. None were found.”

She further stated that the volume uncovered could “destroy the whole of Kano” if mishandled.

NAFDAC has launched an in-depth investigation to trace the source and destination of the chemicals. The arrested warehouse manager is currently undergoing interrogation to help determine the distribution chain.

“We’re treating this as a serious public safety issue,” said Adeyeye, assuring the public that all confiscated materials will be safely destroyed in line with environmental and safety regulations.