The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced a nationwide enforcement operation to seize alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and PET bottles below 200ml, in line with the Federal Government’s ban on the products.
In a statement, the agency said the exercise is being carried out across the six geopolitical zones to enforce the prohibition on the production, importation, distribution, sale and consumption of the affected alcoholic beverages.
NAFDAC explained that the operation follows the closure of manufacturing facilities that failed to comply with the directive and forms part of ongoing efforts to protect public health and reduce harmful alcohol consumption.
According to the agency, enforcement teams have been deployed to markets, motor parks, bars, retail outlets and other distribution channels to identify, confiscate and remove the banned products from circulation.
The agency directed manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers and transporters to immediately surrender any remaining stock, warning that continued possession or sale of the prohibited products constitutes a violation of regulatory laws.
NAFDAC warned that offenders risk product seizure, regulatory sanctions and possible prosecution.
It said the enforcement exercise is aimed at curbing underage drinking, reducing substance abuse and limiting harmful alcohol consumption, particularly among children and young people.
The agency also appealed to members of the public to support the campaign by avoiding the purchase of the banned alcoholic beverages and reporting anyone involved in their production, distribution or sale to the nearest NAFDAC office or through its toll-free complaint channels.
