The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised concerns over the harmful effects of indiscriminate alcohol consumption, linking excessive drinking to social problems such as banditry and warning that prolonged alcohol use can cause serious damage to vital organs in the human body.

The Director-General of NAFDAC, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, made the disclosure during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Wednesday.

Adeyeye said excessive and uncontrolled consumption of alcohol poses significant health and social risks, stressing that the substance can negatively affect major organs of the body, including the brain, kidneys and liver.

According to her, alcohol consumption can have serious consequences when taken irresponsibly or in excessive quantities, particularly among young people who may be exposed to the substance at an early age. She noted that the effects extend beyond individual health, as alcohol abuse can also contribute to behavioural and societal problems.

The NAFDAC boss further explained that the agency’s decision to restrict the sale of alcoholic beverages in small-sized containers was driven by concerns over the widespread and uncontrolled consumption of such products.

She recalled that the sale of alcoholic drinks in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles had been approved decades ago. However, she said the practice later became increasingly widespread and difficult to control, raising concerns about accessibility and abuse.

Adeyeye stated that NAFDAC subsequently moved to enforce a ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages packaged in quantities below 200 millilitres, as part of efforts to reduce easy access to alcohol and curb its indiscriminate consumption.

She acknowledged that the policy had faced opposition from some individuals and stakeholders who were unhappy with the restrictions. However, she maintained that the agency’s primary concern was the long-term wellbeing of Nigerians, particularly children and young people who could be negatively influenced by the easy availability of alcoholic products.

The NAFDAC Director-General stressed that the debate should not be viewed solely from an economic perspective, but also from the standpoint of public health and the future of the country.

She said Nigerians have a responsibility to consider the kind of environment they are creating for the younger generation, noting that protecting children from the harmful effects of substance abuse should remain a priority.

Adeyeye therefore urged Nigerians to take the dangers associated with excessive alcohol consumption seriously, stressing the need for greater awareness, responsible consumption and stronger measures to protect vulnerable members of society from alcohol-related harm.