The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Nigeria has announced the enforcement of a ban on the importation, manufacture, distribution, sale, and use of alcoholic beverages in sachets, PET, and glass bottles of 200ml and below. The ban, which came into effect on January 31, 2024, aims to curb the negative effects of alcohol consumption, particularly among vulnerable groups such as underage individuals and commercial drivers.
The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, emphasized the seriousness of the ban and stated that the agency had already begun nationwide enforcement actions to ensure compliance. During the enforcement actions, it was discovered that some manufacturers were still producing and possessing the banned products, which NAFDAC considers as flagrant disobedience to Nigerian laws. NAFDAC warned that it would engage all statutory means, including prosecution, to address this matter.
The decision to ban alcoholic beverages in sachets and small volume containers below 200ml was made in December 2018, based on the recommendation of a committee comprising representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, and industry stakeholders. Producers agreed to gradually phase out the production of these products by January 31, 2024.
NAFDAC has urged individuals in possession of the banned alcoholic beverages and packaging materials to report to the agency for handover and destruction to prevent further action, including prosecution. The agency has reaffirmed its commitment to the strict implementation of regulations to protect the health of Nigerians, especially vulnerable youth, from the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption.