The Consumer Protection Council (CPC) in Imo State joined its counterparts across the world to celebrate this year’s World Consumer Rights Day, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of consumers in the state.
The event, which took place at the CPC Complex in Owerri, attracted representatives of government agencies, regulatory bodies, students, and other stakeholders who gathered to deliberate on issues relating to consumer protection and product safety.
Speaking during the occasion, the Imo State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Hon. Barr. Rex Anunobi, commended the Consumer Protection Council for the remarkable work it has been doing in the state, particularly in the area of combating hazardous and fake products in the market.
The Commissioner, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Ebere Orji, stated that the Agency has continued to live up to its mandate by promoting consumer awareness and protecting residents of the state from harmful and substandard goods.
Delivering the welcome address, the Director General of the Consumer Protection Council, Hon. (Dr) Mrs. Obioma Okafor, stated that the Agency remains committed to protecting the welfare and rights of consumers through sustained public enlightenment, effective monitoring of markets, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Hon. (Dr) Mrs. Okafor explained that World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated globally every year on March 15, noting that the origin of the important day dates back to 1962, when the former President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, addressed the United States Congress and formally recognized the fundamental rights of consumers.
“In that historic address, he highlighted four basic consumer rights, namely the right to safety, the right to be informed, the right to choose, and the right to be heard,” she said.
She further noted that this year’s theme, “Safe Products, Confident Consumers,” is both timely and significant as it emphasizes the need for consumers to have confidence in the goods and services they purchase, knowing that such products are safe, genuine, and meet approved standards.
The CPC Director General also commended the Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, for his unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of consumers through the activities of the Consumer Protection Council, describing him as a consumer friendly governor whose administration continues to support policies and initiatives aimed at safeguarding the welfare of the people.
The celebration featured goodwill messages from several regulatory and government agencies including the Imo State Orientation Agency, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Nigeria Customs Service, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Imo State Electricity Regulatory Commission, and the Imo State Police Command.
Also present at the event were notable government functionaries including the Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Statistics, Hon. Anselem Anyanwu Ezechinyere, the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Chika Abazu, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Vulnerable Groups, Hon. Lady Nkechinyere Ugwu, the Chairman of the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission, Hon. Charles Ejiogu, as well as the former Special Adviser to the Imo State Government on Arts and Culture, Hon. Paddy Obinna, among other dignitaries.
One of the major highlights of the event was an inter school debate competition between Young Scientist College, Egbu Owerri, and Urban Development Secondary School, World Bank, Owerri. The students debated on the topic “Government Regulation is More Effective than Self Regulation by Companies in Ensuring Product Safety,” demonstrating impressive knowledge and strong arguments on issues relating to consumer protection and product safety.
The programme also featured a short presentation by students of First Step Academy, which added colour and excitement to the celebration.
Delivering the keynote lecture, the Technological Controller of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mrs. Uchenna Enyioko, stated that World Consumer Rights Day serves as a reminder that protecting consumers is not merely a regulatory responsibility but a shared duty and a key pillar for sustainable economic development.
According to her, the theme captures a simple but profound truth: when products are safe, consumers develop confidence; when consumers are confident, markets grow; and when markets grow responsibly, the economy prospers.
The event concluded with questions and responses, a vote of thanks, closing prayer, and a group photograph to mark the successful celebration of the 2026 World Consumer Rights Day in Imo State.
0 Comments