Reps Advocate Reversal Of Ban On Alcohol In Sachets And Pet Bottles – NAFDAC Urged To Suspend Restriction

The House of Representatives Committee on the National Agency on Food, Drugs Administration, and Control (NAFDAC) has directed the temporary lifting of the ban on the sale of spirits and alcoholic beverages in sachets and pet bottles pending the conclusion of its investigation into the matter……….CONTINUE READING

Chairing the committee, Rep. Regina Akume, announced this decision in Abuja following a public hearing on the ban. She emphasized the importance of following proper procedures before imposing such bans and highlighted the necessity of implementing access control measures to prevent underage individuals from accessing alcoholic content in sachets and pet bottles.

Akume acknowledged the committee’s responsibility for ensuring the effectiveness of NAFDAC in promoting employment and fostering economic growth. She pledged to strike a balance between NAFDAC’s objectives and the concerns of manufacturers, ensuring that any decision taken would not compromise the safety of children and the general public.

Earlier in the proceedings, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director General of NAFDAC, defended the initial ban, stating that it aimed to safeguard the health and well-being of children, youths, and other vulnerable groups. Adeyeye explained that the ban, initiated in December 2018 with a five-year moratorium for manufacturers, was a ministerial directive rather than a unilateral decision by NAFDAC.

Despite the agreement on the ban, Adeyeye expressed concern about the increasing pushback from manufacturers. She highlighted the global commitment, including Nigeria’s endorsement in 2010, to make alcohol less accessible to youth. Adeyeye revealed that around 30% of children were now casually consuming alcohol due to the availability of sachets.

In response, Mr. Segun Ajayi Kadilimni, Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), clarified that there was no fundamental disagreement between MAN and NAFDAC. He affirmed MAN’s commitment to protecting youth and children from accessing alcohol but emphasized the need to find alternative solutions rather than an outright ban.

The committee adjourned indefinitely, leaving the decision on the ban pending further deliberations.

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