The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced a nationwide enforcement operation to remove alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles below 200ml from circulation, in line with the Federal Government’s ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of such products.
In a post published on its official X account, the agency said the enforcement exercise is being carried out across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones following the closure of non-compliant manufacturing facilities as part of efforts to safeguard public health.
According to NAFDAC, enforcement teams have been deployed to markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars and other distribution channels to identify, seize and remove the banned alcoholic products from circulation.
The agency directed manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, transporters and other stakeholders still in possession of the affected products to immediately surrender their remaining stock.
“Continued possession or sale of the banned products constitutes a violation of the law and may attract seizure, regulatory sanctions and prosecution,” the agency said.
NAFDAC said the nationwide operation is aimed at reducing underage drinking, harmful alcohol consumption and substance abuse, particularly among children and young people.
The agency also called on members of the public to support the enforcement exercise by refraining from purchasing banned products and reporting anyone producing, distributing or selling them to the nearest NAFDAC office or through its dedicated hotline.
