By Francis Abu
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has commenced enforcement of the ban on the production and sale of alcohol in sachets and bottles below 200 millilitres.
The Director-General of NAFDAC, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed this at a media briefing in Lagos, noting that the move follows an order from the Senate to protect public health.
According to Prof. Adeyeye, the ban aims to prevent children, adolescents, and young adults from accessing high-alcohol content beverages, which were previously sold in sachets with alcohol concentrations of up to 90 per cent.
She explained that while NAFDAC is not opposed to alcohol consumption, the agency is concerned about the easy accessibility, affordability, and concealability of these small-packaged, high-strength drinks.
Prof. Adeyeye also noted that manufacturers had previously been given time to adjust their products, but the ban is now fully in force to safeguard the health of vulnerable populations.
The agency has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the directive and ensuring compliance across the nation.
