The Bola Tinubu-led federal government has announced an indefinite suspension of the manufacturing of alcoholic drinks in sachets.
The ban on the consumption of alcohol in sachets (Kanuthu Kanuthu) extended to pet bottles less than 200ml.
The directive was revealed by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Consequently, this comes after the expiration of a five-year window given to manufacturers, starting in 2019.
Therefore, under the passed waiver, the ending was scheduled for January 1, 2024.
NAFDAC has gone ahead to seal three factories that were continuing to manufacture sachet alcohol.
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Why Nigeria banned ‘Kanuthu Kanuthu’
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, stated that enforcement of the ban commenced on February 1, 2024.
Adeyeye clarified that the decision wasn’t sudden but a result of a multilateral committee’s recommendations.
The committee proposed a phased approach, aiming to reduce production by 50% by 2020, followed by a complete ban by January 31, 2024.
Additionally, Adeyeye emphasized that NAFDAC did not renew licenses for companies producing sachet drinks beyond January 2024.
The rationale behind the ban lies in the adverse effects of these drinks on underage children, as they are easily accessible and affordable.
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Alcohol safety for children?
Prof Mojisola Adeyeye stated that the pocket-friendly sizes of these beverages make them particularly appealing to children.
This rationale led to the total ban over concerns about the future consequences of the young people enticed by the packaging.
The government’s move underscores its commitment to addressing public health concerns associated with the consumption of alcohol.
Adeyeye affirmed that the body keen on ensuring the safety of food items, especially among vulnerable groups like minors.
By implementing this ban, authorities aim to safeguard the well-being of young individuals and mitigate the potential societal impacts of alcohol abuse.
Nigerian joins other African countries like Uganda that have outlawed alcohol in sachets over their safety and as an effort to curb alcoholism.
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