The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced a nationwide enforcement operation to mop up alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and PET bottles below 200ml from Nigerian markets.
The exercise, which is taking place across the six geopolitical zones, follows the Federal Government’s ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of such products. It also comes after the closure of manufacturing facilities that failed to comply with the directive.
In a statement on Wednesday, NAFDAC said enforcement teams are conducting coordinated operations in markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars and other distribution channels to identify, seize and remove the banned products from circulation.
The ban was first announced in January 2024 after months of consultations between NAFDAC, the Federal Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Trade and Investment, and industry stakeholders.
NAFDAC said sachets and PET bottles below 200ml make alcohol cheap, accessible and attractive to minors, contributing to rising cases of underage drinking, alcohol abuse, and substance abuse among youths. Health experts had also linked the small packs to binge drinking, road accidents, and poor productivity.
Following a grace period for manufacturers to wind down production, NAFDAC in February 2024 shut down several factories that continued producing the banned packs. The Agency said the mop-up phase is the next step to ensure the products are completely removed from the market.
Enforcement Details
NAFDAC warned that manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers and transporters must immediately surrender any remaining stock.
The Agency said continued possession or sale of the banned products constitutes a violation of the law and may attract seizure, regulatory sanctions and prosecution.
“Manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, transporters, and other stakeholders are advised to immediately surrender any remaining stock,” the statement read.
The Agency added that the enforcement is aimed at reducing harmful alcohol consumption, underage drinking and substance abuse, particularly among children and young people.
Public Urged to Cooperate
NAFDAC is calling on members of the public to support the exercise by refusing to buy banned products and by reporting anyone found producing, distributing or selling them.
Reports can be made to the nearest NAFDAC office or through the toll-free line: 0800-1-623322.
The Agency reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that only safe, properly packaged and regulated alcoholic beverages remain in the Nigerian market.