*Enforcement aims to reduce underage drinking, harmful alcohol consumption, substance abuse among children and young people
By Olawale Lamina
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has commenced a nationwide enforcement exercise to remove alcoholic beverages in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles below 200ml from circulation across the country.
In a statement issued Wednesday, NAFDAC agency stated that the mop up reaffirms the Federal Government’s ban on the production, importation and sale of such products in Nigeria.
NAFDAC said the enforcement exercise, covers that nation’s six geopolitical zones, followed the closure of manufacturing facilities found to be contravening the ban.
The food, drinks and beverages regulatory body issued a warning to manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, hawkers and transporters to voluntarily surrender any remaining stock, as continued possession or sale of the banned products could attract seizure, regulatory sanctions and prosecution.
The agency stated: “This mop-up is not a one-off exercise but part of a sustained enforcement and public education campaign to rid Nigeria of harmful alcohol products, protect children and adolescents, and promote a culture of responsible consumption among adults.”
The statement further noted that the nationwide enforcement highlights the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health by reducing underage drinking, harmful alcohol consumption and substance abuse among children and young people.
But it stated clearly that the exercise is not targeted at compliant manufacturers operating within approved pack-size standards, while assuring that it will eliminate products that pose significant public health risks.
NAFDAC also informed that its enforcement teams are working together for coordinated operations in markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars and other distribution channels to identify, seize and destroy the affected products.
NAFDAC appealed to Nigerians to lend support to the exercise by reporting anyone producing, stocking or selling the banned sachet and sub-200ml PET-bottle alcoholic beverages. It advised the public to avoid patronising such products, describing them as unregistered, unsafe and illegal.
It urged Nigerians to work in synergy to safeguard communities and future generations and urging the public to report any suspicious activities to the nearest NAFDAC office.
This is not the first time the agency will be embarrassed on enforcement exercise to ensure a ban on the listed items, it will take political will and enabling legislation to ensure the success of the campaign.
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