NAFDAC shuts 16 water factories in Rivers

Authorities in Rivers State, Nigeria, have closed down 16 sachet water factories as part of an enforcement operation by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The factories were found to be operating without valid licenses and in violation of various regulatory standards.

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The operation which was carried out in the four LGAs led to the closure of 16 sachet water factories while their owners were invited to the NAFDAC office.

NAFDAC's South-South Zone Director, Chukwuma Oligbu, announced the closures, which occurred across four local government areas: Asari-Toru, Akuku-Toru, Degema, and Ikwerre. The factories were cited for numerous infractions, including operating under poor hygienic conditions, using dirty or inappropriate filters like handkerchiefs, having expired licenses, and issues with product labeling. Some were also found to be improperly located, such as within filling stations, which violates NAFDAC regulations.

Oligbu issued a stern warning to producers of sachet water, urging them to cease the production of unregistered packaged water. He also called on those with expired licenses to initiate the renewal process promptly to avoid facing legal consequences. The agency emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of regulated products and will not tolerate clandestine operations.

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The sachet water factories were operating under poor hygienic conditions, dirty filters, use of handkerchief as filters, expired licences, labelling lapses and wrong factory address.

NAFDAC officials also highlighted the risks associated with improperly produced sachet water, noting that the agency will continue its surveillance across the state. Producers found obstructing NAFDAC officials from performing their duties face arrest and prosecution. The agency encourages the public to report any unwholesome or illicit production and sale of NAFDAC-regulated products.

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Such practices he added were against the law that established the agency for producers to obstruct NAFDAC officials from carrying out their lawful duties and those that indulged in such act risk arrest and prosecution.