By Peace Erewunmi

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced a nationwide enforcement exercise to remove banned sachet alcoholic beverages and alcoholic drinks packaged in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles below 200ml from circulation across Nigeria.

The agency said the operation follows the expiration of the transition period granted to manufacturers, distributors and retailers to comply with the ban. Enforcement teams have been deployed across the country’s six geopolitical zones to seize prohibited products from markets, shops, bars, supermarkets and other sales outlets.

According to NAFDAC, the exercise is aimed at reducing the widespread availability of cheap alcohol, curbing underage drinking and addressing the growing incidence of substance abuse, particularly among young people.

The agency warned that manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers found producing or selling the banned products would face regulatory sanctions, including product seizure, prosecution and other penalties in accordance with existing laws.

NAFDAC also urged members of the public to support the enforcement exercise by avoiding the purchase of banned alcoholic beverages and reporting individuals or businesses that continue to manufacture, distribute or sell the prohibited products. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health through effective regulation and enforcement of food and drug safety standards.