The House of Representatives, in collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has announced plans to temporarily lift the ban on the sale and consumption of sachet alcoholic beverages in Nigeria. The decision, aimed at easing economic pressures, was disclosed by Philip Agbese, the deputy spokesman for the House.
NAFDAC had initially banned the production of alcoholic beverages in small sachets and bottles due to concerns over widespread drug abuse among Nigerian youths. However, following extensive deliberations and a probe initiated by the House Committee on NAFDAC, it was decided that the ban would be lifted until the economy shows signs of full recovery.
Agbese briefed journalists at the National Assembly Complex, explaining that the resolution to lift the ban temporarily was reached after a constructive meeting between the House Committee and NAFDAC officials. He highlighted the importance of aligning Nigeria’s regulations with global practices while considering the current economic challenges facing the country.
“We reached a consensus during the meeting that, at this juncture in our history, we must move forward in harmony with our international counterparts. However, we also agreed with NAFDAC that the ban would be temporarily lifted until our economy stabilizes,” Agbese stated.
Discussing the decision-making process, Agbese, who represents Ado/Ogbadigbo/Okpokwu Federal Constituency, Benue State, emphasized the input from various stakeholders, including NAFDAC, the organized private sector, civil society organizations, and other interested parties. He noted that the prevailing economic realities, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, had made it challenging for industry operators to comply fully with regulatory requirements.
The House of Representatives had mandated its committee on NAFDAC to investigate the circumstances surrounding the ban on sachet alcoholic beverages in Nigeria following a motion raised by members Paschal Agbodike and Philip Agbese during a plenary session on February 7, 2024.
The temporary lifting of the ban is expected to provide relief to stakeholders in the alcoholic beverages industry as efforts continue to revive and strengthen the Nigerian economy.
