The Nigerian federal government has officially announced the commencement of a ban on alcoholic beverages produced in sachets less than 200ml, starting February 1, 2024.
The decision, which was initially set for enforcement in 2018, was reiterated by Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), in a recent statement.
Adeyeye disclosed that the deadline for manufacturers to cease the production of alcoholic drinks in sachets and PET bottles, which was extended to January 31, 2024, was a result of recommendations from a high-powered committee comprising the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), and industry representatives including the Association of Food, Beverages and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE), Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN).
The decision to implement the ban comes after a commitment made by producers of alcohol in sachets and small volumes in December 2018. As part of this commitment, producers agreed to reduce production by 5% starting January 31, 2022, with a complete phase-out of such products in the country by January 31, 2024.
This move aims to address concerns related to the health and safety risks associated with the consumption of alcoholic beverages in small sachets. The ban is expected to have far-reaching effects on the alcohol manufacturing industry, ensuring a shift towards more responsible and regulated production practices.
As the enforcement begins, NAFDAC will be closely monitoring compliance to ensure the complete cessation of the production of alcoholic drinks in sachets and PET bottles across the country.
