The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Nigeria has banned alcoholic beverages produced in sachets less than 200ml. The five-year window given to manufacturers to cease the production of such drinks in sachets and PET bottles expired on January 31, 2024, and enforcement of the ban began on February 1, 2024.
Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, emphasized that the ban was a result of a multilateral committee’s decision in December 2018. The committee had recommended a phased reduction in production by 50% by 2020, leading to an outright ban on January 31, 2024. Adeyeye explained that NAFDAC did not issue renewal licenses exceeding January 2024 to any manufacturer of these products.
The decision to ban alcoholic beverages in small sachets and bottles was based on the negative effects on underage children. Adeyeye noted that the drinks’ pocket-friendly sizes made them easily accessible and affordable, leading to potential health consequences for children in the future.
The World Health Organization’s recommendations on regulating the marketing of alcoholic beverages, especially to younger people, and restricting the availability of alcohol were cited as considerations for the ban. Adeyeye warned that manufacturers found in violation of the ban would face prosecution, emphasizing NAFDAC’s commitment to safeguarding the health of Nigerians, particularly vulnerable youth, from the dangers of reckless alcohol consumption.
