A civil society organization has raised concerns that Nigeria’s proposed restriction on small-packaged alcoholic beverages could produce unintended harmful consequences rather than curbing excessive consumption.
The Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative (IADI) issued a statement Wednesday opposing the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control’s plan to prohibit alcohol sales in sachets and small plastic bottles under 200ml.
Christopher Ofomhi, IADI’s Executive Director, argued that focusing on container sizes fails to tackle the underlying factors driving substance misuse among Nigerians.
The organization warned the policy might inadvertently encourage purchase of larger quantities, jeopardize income sources for small vendors, and create demand for illegally produced beverages lacking safety oversight—presenting more serious health dangers than regulated products.
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Ofomhi suggested the regulatory agency should prioritize addressing counterfeit pharmaceuticals and substandard products in the market rather than limiting legal purchases by adults.
“The agency’s primary duty involves ensuring products meet safety standards and authenticity requirements, not restricting what responsible adults choose to consume,” Ofomhi stated.
IADI called on NAFDAC to reassess its approach, directing resources toward eliminating fake products, enhancing regulatory enforcement, and rebuilding confidence among Nigerian consumers—measures the group believes would better serve public health objectives.
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