The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched a nationwide enforcement operation targeting alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles below 200 millilitres, in line with the Federal Government’s ban on the products.
The agency announced that the coordinated exercise is taking place across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones following the closure of non-compliant manufacturing facilities. The operation forms part of efforts to protect public health, according to Channels Television.
NAFDAC enforcement teams have begun inspections in markets, motor parks, bars, retail outlets and other distribution channels to identify, seize and remove the banned alcoholic products from circulation.
The agency warned manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, transporters and other stakeholders to immediately surrender any remaining stock of the prohibited products.
It stated that continued possession, distribution or sale of the banned alcoholic beverages violates existing regulations and could result in sanctions, product seizures and prosecution.
NAFDAC said the enforcement is aimed at reducing underage drinking, harmful alcohol consumption and substance abuse, particularly among children and young people.
The agency also urged members of the public to avoid purchasing the prohibited products and to report anyone involved in their production, distribution or sale through the nearest NAFDAC office or its designated reporting channels.
