The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) has implemented a ban on sachet alcohol in Nigeria to safeguard the health of the population. According to Christy Obiazikwor, Deputy Director of public affairs at NAFDAC, the ban specifically targets small sachets and PET bottles containing high alcohol percentages.
Obiazikwor emphasized the need for this measure by stating, “Sachet alcohol contains as much as 30% alcohol, while beer typically holds only 4-8%. The high alcohol content in sachets poses risks as it is often misused by Okada riders and easily accessible to children.”
NAFDAC granted distillers and blenders a five-year grace period to deplete their existing sachet alcohol stock. Obiazikwor clarified that the objective is not to prohibit alcohol entirely but to eliminate its availability in easily exploitable forms.
Effective February 1, NAFDAC commenced nationwide enforcement of the ban on alcoholic beverages in sachets, PET, and small glass bottles of 200ml or less. In response to protests by members of the Distillers and Blenders Association against the ban, Obiazikwor defended the decision, stressing the importance of responsible alcohol consumption to prevent adverse effects.
Renowned psychologist and founder of the Global Initiative on Substance Abuse, Dr. Martin Agwogie, highlighted Nigeria’s significant public health challenges associated with alcohol consumption, particularly locally brewed varieties. He urged collective efforts to address this issue and emphasized the need for responsible drinking habits to mitigate health risks.
