NAFDAC Launches Nationwide Seizure of Banned Alcohol

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 polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles that are smaller than 200 millilitres. This action aligns with the Federal Government's ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale, and use of these alcoholic drinks.

NAFDAC announced that the enforcement exercise is being conducted simultaneously across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones after the closure of non-compliant manufacturing facilities. The agency's enforcement teams are targeting markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars, and other distribution channels to identify and remove banned products.

NAFDAC has directed all stakeholders, including manufacturers and retailers, to surrender any remaining stock of the prohibited products, warning that continued possession or sale constitutes a violation of the law, which could lead to seizure and prosecution. The operation aims to reduce underage drinking and substance abuse among children and young people, and NAFDAC has urged the public to refrain from purchasing these banned products and report offenders.