The House of Representatives Committee on the National Agency on Food, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has opted to temporarily lift the ban on the sale of spirits and alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles pending the completion of investigations.
Chairperson Regina Akume announced the decision in Abuja, on Friday, following a public hearing on the ban of these products last week.
This underscores the need for proper procedures before imposing bans and stressing the importance of access control measures to safeguard children and young people.
Akume affirmed the committee’s commitment to ensuring NAFDAC’s efficiency and promoting economic development.
She pledged to establish a fair playing field between NAFDAC and manufacturers without compromising public safety.
NAFDAC Director General Prof Mojisola Adeyeye reiterated that the prohibition aimed to protect vulnerable populations, despite manufacturers’ opposition.
Adeyeye clarified that the decision stemmed from a ministerial directive, and the five-year moratorium for phasing out alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles has expired. She emphasized the agency’s stance against packaging alcoholic beverages in sachets and pet bottles to prevent easy access by children.
