The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has stepped up enforcement of the Federal Government’s ban on alcoholic beverages sold in sachets and PET bottles smaller than 200 millilitres. The agency has begun a nationwide operation to remove the banned products from the market.
The enforcement exercise is taking place across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. It targets the production, distribution, and sale of the prohibited alcoholic drinks. NAFDAC said the move follows the shutdown of factories that ignored the directive.
Markets, Bars and Motor Parks Under Surveillance
As part of the operation, NAFDAC officials are inspecting and raiding markets, supermarkets, retail stores, bars, motor parks, warehouses, and other outlets. They are seizing products that break the regulation.
The agency also told everyone in the alcohol supply chain to act now. Manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, and transporters must withdraw and surrender any remaining stock of the banned products.
Violators Face Sanctions
NAFDAC warned that anyone who produces, transports, distributes, or sells the prohibited alcoholic beverages faces strict regulatory action.
The agency said offenders may lose their products, face administrative sanctions, and risk prosecution under existing food and drug laws.
Protecting Young Nigerians
NAFDAC said the crackdown supports wider efforts to reduce underage drinking and discourage harmful alcohol use. It also aims to fight substance abuse, especially among children and young adults.
The agency added that limiting access to cheap alcohol sachets should reduce misuse and improve public health across the country.
Public Urged to Report Offenders
The regulator urged Nigerians to support the campaign by avoiding banned alcoholic drinks and reporting anyone who makes or sells them.
Members of the public can send reports to the nearest NAFDAC office or call the agency’s toll-free complaint line 0800-1-623322.
NAFDAC restated its commitment to strict compliance with Nigeria’s alcohol regulations. It said it will continue the nationwide operation until all banned products leave circulation.
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