The Federal Government has initiated the enforcement of the ban on the importation, manufacture, distribution, sale, and use of alcoholic beverages in sachets, PET, and glass bottles of 200 ml and below, as confirmed by the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye. The deadline for manufacturers to cease production in sachets and PET bottles lapsed on January 31, 2024.
Adeyeye, in a press conference in Abuja, stated that as of the given deadline, no alcoholic beverage in the mentioned categories was registered by NAFDAC. The agency has commenced nationwide enforcement actions since February 1, 2024, to ensure the implementation of the new policy.
Expressing concern over non-compliance, Adeyeye emphasized that NAFDAC views this as a flagrant disobedience to Nigerian laws and is prepared to take statutory measures, including prosecution. She urged holders of banned alcoholic packaging materials to report to NAFDAC for hand-over and destruction.
The decision to ban certain alcohol packaging sizes was based on recommendations from a high-powered committee involving the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, and relevant agencies. Adeyeye noted that the decision, initiated in December 2018, aimed to protect under-aged individuals and the general population from the negative effects of alcohol consumption.
Highlighting the risks associated with the banned packaging sizes, Adeyeye pointed out that under-aged individuals and commercial vehicle drivers are particularly vulnerable. The World Health Organization’s findings on alcohol consumption, including its link to various health conditions and social problems, were referenced to underscore the importance of the policy in safeguarding public health.
In line with global health recommendations, Adeyeye highlighted the need for regulatory actions to control alcohol marketing, especially targeting younger people, and to regulate and restrict alcohol availability.
