Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ibrahim Ramalan
Published on 2024-02-23 19:00:38
The House of Representatives Committee on National Agency on Food, Drugs Administration, and Control, NAFDAC, made a significant decision to suspend the ban on the sale of spirits and alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles. This suspension was put in place while the committee conducts an investigation into the matter. Rep. Regina Akume, the Chairman of the House Committee on NAFDAC, made this announcement in Abuja following a public hearing on the ban of these products.
Akume emphasized the importance of following proper steps before imposing a ban, highlighting the need to implement Access Control Procedures to prevent children and youths from accessing the alcoholic contents of the sachets and pet bottles. She stressed that the committee’s main responsibility is to ensure the efficiency of NAFDAC in creating job opportunities and promoting economic growth. Akume also assured of establishing a fair playing field between NAFDAC and manufacturers that would not compromise the safety of children or the general public.
During the public hearing, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, explained that the ban on alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles was initially introduced to safeguard the health and well-being of children, youths, and other vulnerable groups. Adeyeye mentioned that the ban was a ministerial directive and not solely decided by NAFDAC, and the five-year moratorium given to manufacturers to phase out these products had expired.
Despite the agreement on the ban, Adeyeye expressed surprise at the mounting resistance from manufacturers. She reiterated that the aim was not to eliminate alcohol production but to curb the accessibility of alcohol in sachets and pet bottles, particularly among children. The Director-General emphasized the need to adhere to the World Health Organization’s resolution to restrict youth access to alcohol and reduce alcohol-related risks.
In response, Segun Ajayi kadilimni, the Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, reassured that there was no major disagreement with NAFDAC and reiterated their commitment to protecting youth and children from accessing alcohol. He emphasized the importance of collaboration to address the issue of underage access effectively, highlighting the risks of banning these products and potentially diverting consumers to illicit substances.
The committee eventually adjourned indefinitely, recognizing the complex nature of the issue at hand. The ongoing debate between NAFDAC, manufacturers, and other stakeholders underscores the importance of balancing public health concerns with economic considerations. As the investigation continues, stakeholders will need to work together to find a sustainable solution that upholds public safety while supporting the interests of all parties involved.
Overall, the decision to suspend the ban on alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles reflects the ongoing dialogue and efforts to address the complexities surrounding alcohol regulation in Nigeria. Through collaboration and informed decision-making, the hope is to find a balanced approach that prioritizes the welfare of children and the public while supporting economic growth in the country.
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