The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced the nationwide enforcement of its ban on sachet alcohol, marking a major step in Nigeria’s public health and regulatory drive to curb alcohol abuse and its associated social and medical risks.
The enforcement exercise targets the production, distribution, and sale of alcohol packaged in sachets and small-volume containers, which authorities say have made alcoholic drinks easily accessible, particularly to underage persons and low-income consumers. According to NAFDAC, the widespread availability of sachet alcohol has contributed significantly to rising cases of substance abuse, health complications, and social vices across the country.
NAFDAC officials said the move follows extensive stakeholder engagement with manufacturers, distributors, and industry players, many of whom were given ample time to comply with the directive before enforcement began. The agency noted that the ban aligns with broader national efforts to promote responsible consumption and reduce the long-term health burden linked to excessive alcohol intake, including liver disease, mental health disorders, and addiction.
As part of the enforcement, NAFDAC teams are conducting inspections, confiscating banned products, and taking regulatory action against defaulters nationwide. The agency stressed that no individual or company would be exempt, warning that violators risk prosecution, fines, and closure of facilities.
Public health experts have welcomed the enforcement, describing it as a necessary intervention to protect vulnerable populations, especially youths, from the dangers of cheap and readily available alcohol. NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and urged Nigerians to support the initiative by reporting illegal production or sale of sachet alcohol in their communities.
The agency added that it will continue to monitor compliance closely while intensifying public awareness campaigns on the health risks associated with alcohol abuse.
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