In a bid to address health concerns and curb the abuse of alcoholic beverages, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a ban on the production of alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles of less than 200ml. The announcement was made during a two-day enforcement exercise conducted in Ota, Ogun State.

Mr. Kazeem Adeniran, the Assistant Chief Regulator Officer of the Investigation and Enforcement Department at NAFDAC, emphasized the importance of adhering to the ban, citing an agreement reached by a tripartite committee established in 2018. This committee, comprising NAFDAC, the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN), and other stakeholders, was formed to address the rising concerns of alcohol abuse, particularly among the youth.

The ban specifically targets distillers under DIBAN, urging them to discontinue the production of alcoholic beverages in sachets and pet bottles of less than 200ml. This directive comes into effect as of January 31, in accordance with the committee’s decision. The enforcement exercise conducted in Ota and its environs aims to ensure compliance with these regulations and safeguard the well-being of Nigerians.

Adeniran expressed disappointment that some companies were still producing alcoholic beverages below the specified volume, contrary to the agreement made in 2018. He clarified that the consensus reached during the committee meeting clearly mandated the discontinuation of such production in sachets and small pet bottles, with an emphasis on transitioning to the production of alcoholic beverages exceeding 200ml.

The move by NAFDAC aligns with broader efforts to address public health concerns associated with alcohol consumption, particularly when sold in smaller, easily accessible packaging. The ban aims to protect consumers, especially the youth, from the potential risks and negative health implications associated with the abuse of alcoholic beverages.