By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal
The Standard Bearers (SB) Islamic Organisation, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), on Thursday warned that sachet alcohol has contributed to binge drinking among youth in Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is enforcing a ban on alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and bottles below 200ml.
In a statement jointly signed by the National Coordinator of the organisation, Dr. Nurudeen AbdulRaheem, and the National Secretary, Malam Qaasim Adegbuyi, the group declared support for NAFDAC’s ban on sachet alcoholic drinks.
AbdulRaheem observed that in Nigeria, sachet alcohol, often sold for as little as ₦100, has worsened binge drinking, youth addiction, and community insecurity.
He described the move by NAFDAC as a necessary public health intervention.
According to him, cheap, small-volume alcohol has made harmful drinking easy and common among young people and minors.
“Global health data show that alcohol causes over 3 million deaths annually, and it is a major driver of road accidents, violence, liver disease, and mental health disorders,” he said.
AbdulRaheem, who is also a physician at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), acknowledged concerns from industry players but stressed that public health and the protection of young lives must come first.
“Islamic ethical values, like many shared societal values, emphasise the protection of life, intellect, and family stability.
“We urge NAFDAC and the Federal Government to remain firm while supporting affected businesses with transition plans.
“This is a step toward a safer and healthier Nigeria,” he said.
