Abuja, February 5, 2024 - The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has initiated strict enforcement measures following the ban on the importation, production, distribution, sale, and use of alcoholic beverages in sachets, PET, and glass bottles of 200ml and below. The Director-General, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, revealed this during a press conference in Abuja on Monday.
In a surprising turn of events, NAFDAC discovered that some manufacturers continued to produce the banned products even after the enforcement actions had begun. Furthermore, these manufacturers were found to possess substantial quantities of both finished products and packaging materials for the prohibited alcoholic beverages.
Expressing her concern, Prof Adeyeye stated, "This situation is of course not acceptable, and the agency views this as flagrant disobedience to the laws of Nigeria. NAFDAC views this matter seriously and will engage all statutory means, which may include prosecution, to deal with the matter."
The Director-General urged all holders of alcohol in sachets, PET, and glass bottles, as well as empty sachets and bottles, to report to the Investigation and Enforcement Directorate of NAFDAC for the immediate handover of these items for destruction. She warned that failure to comply might result in more severe measures, including prosecution.
This crackdown comes after NAFDAC ceased the registration of alcoholic beverages in sachet and small volume PET and glass bottles below 200ml in January 2022. As of January 31, 2024, no alcoholic beverages in these categories are registered by NAFDAC. The agency commenced nationwide enforcement actions on February 1, 2024, after the window period for manufacturers to sell off existing stock expired.
NAFDAC remains steadfast in its commitment to enforcing the ban and ensuring compliance with the new policy, emphasizing the need to prioritize public health and safety in the regulation of alcoholic beverages.
