The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced a nationwide enforcement operation to remove banned alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles smaller than 200 millilitres from circulation across Nigeria.
The operation targets markets, motor parks, bars, supermarkets, and retail outlets in all six geopolitical zones, with enforcement teams confiscating prohibited products from vendors after the expiration of the compliance period.
According to NAFDAC, the exercise is aimed at reducing underage drinking, limiting access to cheap alcohol, and curbing harmful alcohol consumption among young people. While the enforcement officers are inspecting premises and seizing banned sachet alcohol and PET bottles below 200ml across the country, and ensuring closure of facilities found to be violating the directive as part of the ongoing compliance exercise.
NAFDAC stressed that the enforcement supports government efforts to reduce underage drinking, curb alcohol abuse, and protect vulnerable groups nationwide.
The agency warned that manufacturers, importers, distributors, transporters, wholesalers, retailers, and hawkers found producing, importing, stocking, transporting, or selling the banned products will face regulatory sanctions, seizure of goods, and possible prosecution in accordance with existing laws.
NAFDAC further directed all stakeholders still in possession of the affected alcoholic beverages to immediately surrender their remaining stock to the nearest NAFDAC office to avoid enforcement action. The Agency further urged Nigerians to refrain from purchasing sachet alcohol and alcoholic drinks packaged in PET bottles below 200ml. While encouraging members of the public to report any individuals or businesses flouting the directive through NAFDAC’s state offices or official complaint channels.
NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring strict compliance with regulations governing the production, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages in Nigeria. The agency stated it will continue the nationwide enforcement exercise until it clears all banned products from circulation.
