NAFDAC begins nationwide seizure of sachet alcohol

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has initiated a nationwide enforcement operation to remove all alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles below 200 milliliters from circulation. This move signifies the full implementation of the Federal Government's ban on these products.

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manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, hawkers and transporters to immediately surrender any remaining stock, stressing that continued possession or sale of the products would attract seizure, regulatory sanctions and possible prosecution.

NAFDAC enforcement teams are simultaneously operating across all six geopolitical zones, visiting markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars, and supermarkets. The agency is identifying, seizing, and destroying the prohibited products. Manufacturers found producing these banned drinks in violation of directives have also faced closure of their facilities. NAFDAC warned that anyone involved in producing, importing, distributing, transporting, stocking, or selling these items risks prosecution.

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the exercise is not a one-off operation but part of a sustained nationwide enforcement and public enlightenment campaign aimed at eliminating harmful alcohol products from the Nigerian market.

NAFDAC Director General Prof. Christianah Adeyeye stated that manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, hawkers, and transporters have been directed to immediately surrender any remaining stock. Continued possession or sale of these products will result in seizure, regulatory sanctions, and potential legal action. This aggressive regulatory action is considered one of the most significant in recent years concerning alcoholic beverages.

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the action is designed to protect children, adolescents and other vulnerable groups from the dangers associated with the widespread availability of small-pack alcoholic beverages, while encouraging responsible alcohol consumption among adults.

The government's determination to tackle underage drinking, substance abuse, and the widespread availability of cheap alcohol among young Nigerians is evident. NAFDAC emphasized that this is not a one-off operation but part of a sustained campaign to eliminate harmful alcohol products from the Nigerian market. The agency clarified that the enforcement targets products posing significant public health risks, particularly to children, adolescents, and other vulnerable groups, while encouraging responsible alcohol consumption among adults. NAFDAC also appealed to the public to support the enforcement by reporting any suspicious activities related to the prohibited beverages.

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the enforcement is not targeted at manufacturers who comply with the approved packaging thresholds but is focused on removing products considered to pose significant public health risks.