Federal Government Commences Nationwide Enforcement of Ban on Small Alcoholic Beverage Packaging

In a bid to address health concerns and protect the public, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially initiated the enforcement of a ban on the importation, manufacture, distribution, sale, and use of alcoholic beverages in sachets, PET, and glass bottles of 200 ml and below.

The Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, made this announcement during a press conference held in Abuja on Monday. The agency emphasized that the deadline for manufacturers to cease production in sachets and PET bottles expired on January 31, 2024.

Adeyeye disclosed, “As of January 31, 2024, there is no alcoholic beverage in these categories that are registered by NAFDAC. The agency has commenced nationwide enforcement actions on February 1, 2024, to ensure compliance with the new policy.”

Expressing concern over non-compliance, Adeyeye stated, “This situation is, of course, not acceptable, and the agency views this as flagrant disobedience to the laws of Nigeria. NAFDAC will engage all statutory means, including prosecution, to address the matter.”

The decision to ban small packaging sizes was based on the recommendations of a high-powered committee involving the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), and industry representatives such as the Association of Food, Beverages and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE) and the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN). This decision was reached in December 2018.

Adeyeye clarified, “Producers committed to reducing production by 5 percent from January 31, 2022, with a complete phase-out of the products in the country by January 31, 2024.”

The Director-General emphasized that this move was in the best interest of the country, aiming to protect under-aged individuals and the general Nigerian population. Citing World Health Organization findings, she highlighted the risks associated with the consumption of these smaller packaging sizes, particularly among children and commercial vehicle drivers.

To encourage compliance, Adeyeye urged holders of banned alcoholic beverage packaging materials to report to NAFDAC for the handover and destruction of these items. The agency is prepared to take stern measures, including prosecution, for non-compliance.

The decision aligns with global health recommendations, as harmful alcohol consumption is linked to various health conditions and social problems. The World Health Organization advocates for effective strategies, including regulating marketing and restricting availability, to address the abuse of alcohol.