The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised concerns over the role of alcohol consumption in worsening social problems and insecurity in Nigeria, including banditry.
The agency said excessive alcohol use can contribute to behaviours and circumstances that create wider public-safety challenges, particularly among young people and vulnerable communities.
NAFDAC has continued to advocate stronger measures to control the production, distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages, especially products that are easily accessible to young people.
The agency’s position comes amid its broader efforts to address the health and social consequences associated with alcohol consumption. It has maintained that tighter regulation is necessary to protect public health and reduce the harmful effects associated with alcohol abuse.
NAFDAC has also been involved in measures aimed at restricting the sale and distribution of certain alcoholic products, with the agency stressing the need for compliance with existing regulations.
The concerns come as Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity in several parts of the country, including attacks by bandits and other criminal groups.
The agency urged Nigerians to take the health and social consequences of harmful alcohol consumption seriously, while calling for greater cooperation among regulators, communities and other stakeholders in tackling issues that threaten public safety.
NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to enforcing regulations governing alcoholic products and protecting Nigerians from products and practices that could endanger public health.
