The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a massive illegal stockpile of hazardous chemicals in Kano State, raising serious national security concerns.

In a statement released on Thursday, NAFDAC revealed that its operatives discovered 88,560 litres of controlled acids — sulphuric and nitric — stored in 3,445 containers inside a warehouse located in Kwakwaci, Fagge Local Government Area.

Dr. Martin Iluyomade, the agency’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, described the discovery as alarming. He said the chemicals, which are strictly regulated due to their potential use in producing explosives, were stored without necessary approvals and pose a significant risk to public safety.

“These acids are capable of causing large-scale harm if diverted for criminal use. Their improper storage and stockpiling in a densely populated area present both an environmental and security threat,” Iluyomade warned.

He added that investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the chemicals and whether they were intended for industrial use or illicit activities.

Security analysts have praised NAFDAC’s swift action, noting that controlled substances like these are often sought after by terrorist and militant groups for manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

NAFDAC assured the public that it would continue to work closely with other security agencies to prevent chemical terrorism and ensure public safety.