Nigeria’s ban on the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and small bottles has officially taken effect.
However, the policy continues to generate controversy, with concerns over its economic impact and possible job losses.
In Abuja on Wednesday, protesters staged another peaceful demonstration, calling for the suspension of the enforcement of the ban by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Addressing journalists, Secretary-General of the Nigerian Youth Solidarity Assembly, Okwute Akor, argued that enforcing the ban violates the existing national alcohol policy.
He also warned that the policy could lead to job losses and create opportunities for smuggled alcohol products to flood the Nigerian market, thereby reducing government revenue.
NAFDAC, however, maintains that the ban is necessary to protect minors, adolescents, and other vulnerable groups from the harmful effects of early exposure to high-alcohol-content products.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
