The House of Representatives has directed the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to lift the ban on sachet alcohol, per bottle, in accordance with its resolution.
Chairman of the House Committee on NAFDAC, Rep. Regina Akume, emphasized the need to lift the ban due to the current economic challenges facing the country.
She highlighted issues such as high unemployment, soaring inflation, and increased poverty levels, which make the timing of the ban inappropriate.
Akume suggested replacing the ban with prescribed regulations and access control measures, including the establishment of licensed liquor stores/outlets in local government areas nationwide.
She proposed enforcing laws to prevent underage individuals from purchasing alcoholic beverages and tightening enforcement by law enforcement agencies.
Additionally, Akume advocated for increased monitoring and compliance checks by NAFDAC, FCCPC, and other relevant agencies to ensure product quality and safety.
She also proposed legislative measures to encourage recycling of materials used in producing pet bottles and sachets, thereby promoting a green economy and reducing the need for importing raw materials.
The House previously criticized the ban, stating that it contradicts the Constitution and the Economic Recovery Plan of the current administration.
The ban was deemed likely to result in job losses and further economic hardship for Nigerians, according to the House’s assessment of the situation.