NAFDAC launches nationwide crackdown on sachet alcohol and PET bottles below 200ml in Nigeria

NIGERIA – Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced a nationwide enforcement exercise to remove alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and PET bottles below 200ml from circulation, reinforcing the Federal Government’s ban on the production, importation and sale of the affected products. 

In a statement, the agency said the operation is being conducted across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones following the closure of manufacturing facilities found to have violated the ban.  

The enforcement targets products prohibited under the government’s alcohol control regulations aimed at reducing harmful alcohol consumption. 

According to NAFDAC, coordinated enforcement teams are carrying out inspections in markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars and other distribution channels to identify, seize and destroy banned alcoholic beverages. 

The agency urged manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, hawkers and transporters to voluntarily surrender any remaining stock of the prohibited products.  

It warned that anyone found producing, possessing or selling the banned alcoholic beverages would face product seizure, regulatory sanctions and possible prosecution. 

NAFDAC said: “The enforcement operations across the country will not be a one-off operation but part of a sustained enforcement and public education campaign.” 

The agency added: “This campaign is aimed at ridding Nigeria of harmful alcohol products, protecting children and adolescents, and promoting responsible alcohol consumption among adults.” 

NAFDAC stated that the nationwide exercise underscores its commitment to safeguarding public health by reducing underage drinking, harmful alcohol consumption and substance abuse among children and young people. 

The regulator clarified that the enforcement campaign is not directed at manufacturers that comply with the approved packaging requirements. Instead, it is focused on eliminating alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and PET bottles below the permitted 200ml threshold, which it said pose significant public health risks. 

The agency also appealed to Nigerians to support the initiative by reporting individuals or businesses involved in producing, stocking or selling the banned alcoholic beverages. It further advised consumers to avoid purchasing the prohibited products, describing them as “unregistered, unsafe and illegal.” 

The nationwide operation marks a significant escalation in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen alcohol regulation and curb alcohol-related harm.  

The Federal Government has increasingly prioritised measures to address underage drinking and substance abuse, with NAFDAC reaffirming its commitment to sustained enforcement and public awareness campaigns to protect communities and future generations. 

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