By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced the withdrawal and mop-up of banned alcoholic beverages in sachets and PET bottles smaller than 200ml in Abuja’s Wuse Market.
Products worth over ₦52 million were seized during the operation. The ban, initiated in 2018, followed a ministerial directive and agreements with key stakeholders, including the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN), the Association of Food Beverage & Tobacco Employers (AFBTE) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
Manufacturers were given a phased timeline to halt the production and distribution of these products, culminating in this total enforcement phase.
NAFDAC warns manufacturers, retailers, and distributors to cease production, sale, and distribution of the banned items.
The public is also advised to avoid purchasing these products, as they pose significant health risks, particularly to children.
Violators will face strict penalties as outlined in the Agency’s regulations.
