In contrast, the 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.”

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On the condom packs themselves, NAFDAC said original Kiss packs are light red, with the brand name written closely across six lines, while the counterfeit packs are darker, with the name loosely written across five lines and a longer condom strip.

Differences were also identified in the wallet packaging and the physical characteristics of the condoms.

NAFDAC 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 risks, the agency warned that the use of fake condoms poses serious health dangers due to poor quality, lack of sterilisation and absence of regulation.

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“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.

NAFDAC said it 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.