The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced full enforcement of the Federal Government’s ban on alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles smaller than 200 millilitres.
The nationwide enforcement exercise, which began on Wednesday, includes the shutdown of manufacturing facilities found producing the prohibited alcoholic beverages in violation of regulatory directives.
As part of the operation, NAFDAC enforcement teams have been deployed across the six geopolitical zones to inspect markets, motor parks, supermarkets, bars, retail outlets and other distribution channels for the banned products.
The agency warned that anyone involved in the manufacture, importation, distribution, transportation, storage or sale of the prohibited alcoholic beverages would face legal sanctions.
In a statement, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, directed manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, transporters and hawkers to immediately surrender any remaining stock of the affected products.
She cautioned that continued possession or sale of the banned products would result in their seizure, regulatory penalties and possible prosecution.
According to the agency, the enforcement exercise is part of a sustained nationwide campaign aimed at eliminating the circulation of illegal alcoholic beverages and protecting public health.
NAFDAC said the action is intended to curb underage drinking, reduce substance abuse and limit the easy access of children, adolescents and other vulnerable groups to cheap alcoholic drinks.
The agency clarified that the crackdown does not target manufacturers who comply with approved packaging standards but is specifically aimed at removing sachet alcohol and alcoholic beverages packaged in PET bottles below 200 millilitres, which are now prohibited.
NAFDAC also appealed to members of the public to support the enforcement exercise by reporting individuals or businesses involved in the production, distribution or sale of the banned products.
The agency urged Nigerians to avoid purchasing or consuming the prohibited alcoholic beverages and to report any suspicious activity to the nearest NAFDAC office.