Reps Urge NAFDAC to Temporarily Lift Ban on Alcoholic Drinks in Sachets and Pet Bottles
The House of Representatives Committee on the National Agency on Food, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued an order to temporarily suspend the ban on the sale of spirits and alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles. This decision comes as the committee conducts an investigation into the matter.
Chairman of the House Committee on NAFDAC, Rep. Regina Akume, made this announcement in Abuja following a public hearing on the ban of these products. She emphasized the importance of following proper procedures before implementing such a ban, highlighting the need for effective access control measures. The aim is to prevent children and youths from consuming alcoholic contents from sachets and pet bottles.
Rep. Akume acknowledged the committee’s responsibility in ensuring NAFDAC’s efficiency and effectiveness in promoting employment and economic growth. She assured that a balanced approach would be reached between NAFDAC and manufacturers, ensuring the ban does not compromise the safety of children or the public.
Prior to the committee’s decision, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, Director General of NAFDAC, explained that the ban was initially imposed to safeguard the health and well-being of children, youths, and other vulnerable groups. The ban was agreed upon in December 2018, with a five-year moratorium given to manufacturers to phase out alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles.
Prof Adeyeye clarified that the ban was a result of a ministerial directive and not a unilateral decision made by NAFDAC. As the five-year period has come to an end, the agency was surprised by the mounting campaign from manufacturers against the ban. She emphasized that NAFDAC is not against the production of alcohol drinks but aims to restrict alcohol in sachets and pet bottles to prevent easy access by children.
The suspension of the ban will allow the House Committee on NAFDAC to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that any future decisions regarding the sale of alcoholic drinks prioritise the safety and well-being of the public.
