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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized a large quantity of alcoholic beverages illegally packaged in sachets and PET bottles from Wuse Market in Abuja.
During an operation on Thursday, Mr. Kenneth Azikiwe, NAFDAC’s Director for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), confirmed the discovery of various alcohol brands in small packages, including 30ml and 100ml bottles.
These products violate an established ministerial ban on small-packaged alcoholic drinks. Azikiwe urged distributors and retailers to halt the sale of these banned beverages and return any remaining stock to NAFDAC.
He also called on manufacturers to comply with the 2018 agreement between NAFDAC and the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria, which prohibits the sale of alcohol in easily accessible small packages. This agreement, which included a phased withdrawal, is now in its final stage, ensuring the complete removal of such products from the market.
“Since 2018, we have ceased registering and renewing licenses for these products. Manufacturers have had sufficient time to deplete existing stocks and halt production,” Azikiwe explained.
He warned that any future violations would result in severe penalties under the law. “Anyone found selling these products will be penalized for dealing in unregistered items,” he added.
Azikiwe expressed frustration over reports of continued illegal production of sachet alcohol, despite public awareness campaigns and stakeholder engagements aimed at promoting compliance with the ban. NAFDAC’s investigation team will take action to track down and stop such illegal activities, he said.
The director reiterated that it is the responsibility of manufacturers to fully comply with the directive, reaffirming NAFDAC’s commitment to safeguarding public health through strict regulatory enforcement.
