Schneider Electric has stepped up its fight against counterfeit electrical products in Nigeria amid growing concerns over rising electricity-related accidents linked to substandard components and unsafe installations.
The French energy management and automation company recently launched an awareness campaign across major markets, including Oshodi in Lagos and Okija in Port Harcourt, targeting traders, electricians and consumers with safety education on the dangers of fake electrical products.
The move follows increasing scrutiny of informal supply chains distributing low-quality electrical equipment despite existing regulations.
According to data from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, Nigeria recorded 757 electricity-related accidents between 2021 and 2024, resulting in 451 deaths and 351 injuries.
Industry experts say the widespread use of counterfeit electrical materials and poor installations continue to contribute significantly to the accidents.
Speaking during the campaign, Schneider Electric’s Channel Sales Director for West Africa, Nurudeen Oyedeji, described fake electrical products as a serious threat to public safety.
“Counterfeit electrical products remain a serious risk in our markets today,” Oyedeji said.
“Through direct engagement, we are not just raising awareness; we are driving a shift in behaviour. Our goal is to eliminate the use of unverified electrical solutions and ensure safer environments for homes, businesses and communities,” he added.
The company said the initiative aims to encourage consumers and installers to source electrical products only from certified distributors and authorised dealers.
As part of the campaign, Schneider Electric also showcased some of its latest electrical safety products, including the Go9 and GoPact circuit breakers as well as the Vivace E range of switches and sockets.
The awareness drive featured product demonstrations, stakeholder sensitisation sessions and meetings with traders, stockists and panel builders to strengthen trust within its distribution network and identify channels selling fake products.
The company noted that the campaign also generated strong interest ahead of the official launch of its Vivace E product range in Nigeria.
Counterfeit electrical products remain a major challenge in developing markets, where rapid urbanisation, weak enforcement and demand for cheaper alternatives continue to fuel the spread of imitation brands and unsafe electrical materials.
