NAFDAC says ban on sachet alcohol is to protect children

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) says its enforcement of the ban on alcoholic beverages in sachets and small plastic or glass bottles is aimed at protecting children and young people and not punishing manufacturers.

In a statement on Thursday, January 29, NAFDAC director-general, Mojisola Adeyeye, said the policy was driven by public health concerns and growing evidence that alcohol packaged in sachets and containers below 200 millilitres has increased underage drinking across the country.

The agency recently began enforcement of the ban following a directive by the senate, with the backing of the ministry of health and social welfare.

According to Adeyeye, the small and cheap packaging of high-alcohol-content drinks makes them “easily accessible, affordable and concealable”, leading to widespread misuse among minors and some commercial drivers.

“This ban is not punitive; it is protective. It is aimed at safeguarding the health and future of our children and youth by not allowing alcohol in small pack sizes,” the statement reads

She added that labelling such products “not for children” is ineffective in Nigeria’s social context as many parents are unaware their children consume sachet alcohol because it can be easily hidden.

“Report from schools show that children conceal the sachets. The agency did not close down any company that makes alcohol. The agency only banned alcohol in sachets and small containers less than 200ml” the statement added.

The agency recalled that manufacturers were given a six-year moratorium to phase out sachet and small-volume alcohol packaging and that it was after the expiration of the ultimatum given that the ban became effective.

NAFDAC said the current senate resolution aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to the World Health Assembly’s global strategy to reduce the harmful use of alcohol, which seeks to protect vulnerable groups, particularly children and young people.

“We cannot continue to sacrifice the wellbeing of Nigerians for economic gain. The health of a nation is its true wealth,” the statement said