ACPN Criticizes Nigeria's Reversal on Sachet Alcohol Ban

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), under the leadership of Pharm Ambros Ezeh, has condemned the recent decision by the Federal Government of Nigeria to reverse the ban on the retail distribution of sachet alcohol beverages containing less than 200ml. Ezeh described this policy reversal as a troubling setback for public health, particularly concerning child protection.

He noted that the decision undermines previous regulatory efforts established in December 2018, when NAFDAC collaborated with the Federal Ministry of Health and the FCCPC to implement a five-year memorandum of understanding aimed at regulating the industry. The timeline for compliance was set to extend to December 2025.

Ezeh highlighted empirical data linking alcohol misuse to approximately 29% of preventable deaths in Nigeria, with significant road traffic accidents attributed to alcohol-related causes. He stressed that sachet alcohol lowers access barriers and facilitates underage consumption, urging the government to prioritize child protection over commercial interests.