Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched a nationwide enforcement operation to remove sachet alcohol and alcoholic drinks packaged in PET bottles below 200 millilitres from circulation, marking the full implementation of the Federal Government’s ban on the products.
The operation, which began simultaneously across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones on Wednesday, follows the closure of manufacturing facilities found producing the banned alcoholic beverages in violation of regulatory directives.
NAFDAC enforcement teams have been deployed to markets, motor parks, supermarkets, retail outlets, bars and other distribution channels to identify, seize and destroy prohibited products.
The agency warns that anyone involved in the production, importation, distribution, transportation, storage or sale of the banned alcoholic drinks risks prosecution.
In a statement, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, directs manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, transporters and hawkers to immediately surrender all remaining stock.
She warns that continued possession or sale of the banned products will attract seizure, regulatory sanctions and possible prosecution.
NAFDAC describes the operation as one of its most extensive enforcement exercises in recent years, aimed at reducing underage drinking, substance abuse and the widespread availability of cheap alcohol among young Nigerians.
The agency says the crackdown forms part of an ongoing nationwide enforcement and public awareness campaign rather than a one-time exercise.
According to NAFDAC, the ban is intended to protect children, adolescents and other vulnerable groups from the public health risks associated with small-pack alcoholic beverages while encouraging responsible alcohol consumption among adults.
NAFDAC also urges members of the public to avoid purchasing or consuming the prohibited alcoholic beverages and to report violations to the nearest agency office.
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Mirian Gom 
Oluwafunbi Bello 