Authorities in Lagos State have intensified efforts to tackle the distribution of counterfeit scientific calculators following the seizure of about 14,000 boxes of suspected fake devices at Dosunmu Market.
The enforcement operation, conducted on 17 February, involved the Nigeria Police Force, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Lagos State Taskforce.
Officials reportedly discovered a concealed warehouse believed to have been used as a distribution centre for counterfeit calculators intended for markets and educational outlets in different parts of Nigeria.
The seizure has heightened concerns over the circulation of counterfeit educational products, particularly as students prepare for major examinations where scientific calculators are commonly used.
Education and industry stakeholders have warned that unreliable devices could put students at a disadvantage by producing inaccurate results or malfunctioning during examinations.
“Counterfeit devices have been found to malfunction or display incorrect functions, potentially costing students their exam scores and future opportunities,” said Koji Shinjo, General Manager, Global Education Solutions.
Counterfeit calculators may produce incorrect results, fail to perform certain functions, consume batteries unusually quickly or stop working during use. Such problems could disrupt students during examinations and other important academic assessments.
Stakeholders said counterfeit calculators were increasingly being sold through informal retail channels, including some schools, bookshops and other outlets. The products are often offered at prices significantly lower than genuine alternatives, potentially making them attractive to consumers seeking cheaper options.
However, industry representatives warned that the lower prices could come with significant risks, as counterfeit devices may not meet expected quality, safety or performance standards.
The latest seizure is also expected to bring increased scrutiny to the supply chains involved in the manufacture, importation and distribution of counterfeit educational equipment.
Enforcement agencies are continuing with market surveillance and investigations aimed at identifying and disrupting networks involved in the distribution of suspected fake calculators.
Stakeholders have welcomed the operation, stressing the importance of ensuring that students and schools have access to reliable educational equipment, particularly during examination periods.
Consumers purchasing CASIO scientific calculators can also verify the authenticity of their products. According to the manufacturer, genuine products carry a QR code on the top of their packaging which can be scanned for verification. The authentication process is designed to indicate whether the product is genuine.
Parents, schools and students have been advised to purchase scientific calculators from authorised retailers and verify their authenticity before using them for academic work or examinations.
With another examination season approaching, stakeholders say sustained enforcement, stronger market surveillance and greater consumer awareness will be necessary to limit the circulation of counterfeit educational products and prevent avoidable disruptions for students.
