The Federal Government has launched a nationwide crackdown on the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and bottles under 200 millilitres, aiming to curb underage drinking and mitigate health risks linked to small‑pack alcohol.
Director‑General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration (NAFDAC), Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, explained that the enforcement follows extensive consultations and survey data showing the widespread availability of sachet alcohol among minors.
The crackdown was launched on Tuesday at a press briefing in Abuja by officials from the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the NAFDAC, and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.
“The easy access to alcohol has been identified as a major factor in rising consumption among under‑aged individuals,” Adeyeye said, stressing that the ban seeks to protect children, youths, and other vulnerable Nigerians.
It involves nationwide inspections of markets, retail outlets, and distribution points, while the NOA will carry out public enlightenment campaigns across all 774 local government areas to educate communities on the dangers of underage alcohol consumption.
The move has elicited mixed reactions. Public health advocates have welcomed the initiative as a crucial step toward reducing youth alcohol abuse, whereas some in the beverages industry have expressed concerns about potential job losses and economic consequences.
Authorities emphasised that the policy targets only sachets and bottles under 200 ml, not alcohol consumption itself.
Officials warned that violators would face penalties and sanctions as part of the government’s effort to safeguard public health and safety nationwide.
