NAFDAC Begins Nationwide Crackdown on Banned Sachet Alcoholic Drinks
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced a nationwide enforcement operation to remove alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles below 200ml from circulation, in line with the Federal Government’s ban.
The nationwide exercise, which is being carried out across the six geopolitical zones, follows the closure of manufacturing facilities found to be non-compliant with the directive. NAFDAC enforcement teams are conducting coordinated raids on markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars and other distribution channels to identify, seize and confiscate the prohibited products.
The agency warned that manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, transporters and other stakeholders must immediately surrender any remaining stock of the banned alcoholic drinks.
It stressed that the continued production, importation, distribution, possession or sale of the prohibited products constitutes a violation of the law and could attract product seizure, regulatory sanctions and prosecution.
NAFDAC said the enforcement exercise is part of ongoing efforts to curb underage drinking, harmful alcohol consumption and substance abuse, particularly among children and young people.
The agency also urged members of the public to refrain from purchasing the banned products and encouraged Nigerians to report anyone involved in the production, distribution or sale of the prohibited alcoholic beverages to the nearest NAFDAC office or through its dedicated hotline.
NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring full compliance with regulations governing the manufacture, distribution and sale of alcoholic beverages in Nigeria.
