Ahead of the 2026 World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) celebration, the Imo State Orientation Agency, in collaboration with the Imo State Consumer Protection Council (CPC), organized a public roadshow to sensitize residents of the state on consumer rights and product safety.
The awareness campaign, which took place across major streets in Owerri, was aimed at educating consumers on the importance of purchasing safe products and remaining vigilant against fake, substandard, and expired goods in the marketplace.
Officials of the Orientation Agency and the Consumer Protection Council distributed awareness materials while engaging traders, motorists, and members of the public on the need to be conscious of the quality of products they buy and consume.
Speaking during the exercise, the Director General of the Imo State Consumer Protection Council, Hon. (Dr) Mrs. Obioma Okafor, said the roadshow formed part of activities lined up to commemorate the 2026 World Consumer Rights Day, which is celebrated globally every year on March 15.
She explained that the sensitization exercise was necessary to enlighten the public on the importance of consumer protection and the need for residents to be aware of their rights as consumers.
Hon. (Dr) Mrs. Okafor noted that this year’s theme, “Safe Products, Confident Consumers,” highlights the importance of ensuring that goods and services available in the market meet required safety standards while also empowering consumers with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
Also speaking during the roadshow, the representative of the Imo State Orientation Agency, Mrs. Akubuiro Nkechi, Head of Department, Mobilization, commended the collaboration between the Orientation Agency and the Consumer Protection Council in promoting consumer awareness in the state.
Mrs. Akubuiro emphasized that public enlightenment remains a critical tool in protecting citizens from exploitation and harmful products in the marketplace. She urged residents of Imo State to always verify the authenticity and quality of products before purchasing them, while also encouraging traders and manufacturers to adhere strictly to approved standards and ethical business practices.
She further assured that the Imo State Orientation Agency would continue to partner with relevant government institutions to sensitize the public on issues that promote the wellbeing of the people and the development of the state.
The Director General of CPC also commended the Imo State Orientation Agency for partnering with the Council in the public enlightenment drive, adding that such collaboration will go a long way in strengthening consumer awareness in the state.
She therefore called on traders, manufacturers, and service providers to ensure that the products they introduce into the market meet approved standards, while urging consumers to report cases involving fake, expired, or hazardous products to the Consumer Protection Council.
The roadshow attracted the participation of staff of both agencies as well as volunteers who joined in the campaign to promote consumer awareness ahead of the main World Consumer Rights Day celebration scheduled to hold on March 16, 2026, at the Imo CPC Auditorium, Area B, New Owerri
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