The House of Representatives has mandated its Committee on National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control to investigative the basis and circumstance surrounding the ban imposed on the production of alcoholic beverages in sachets and small bottles in Nigeria by the agency.
The resolution of the lawmakers was sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Paschal Agbodike and Hon. Philip Agbese at Wednesday’s plenary.
Moving the motion titled ‘Need to suspend the ban imposed by NAFDAC on production of beverages in sachet’, Agbodike noted that section 4(2) of the Nigerian Constitution empowers the National Assembly to make laws for the order and good governance of the country or any part thereof.
He also noted that Sections 88(1) and (2) of the Constitution empower the National Assembly to conduct investigations into the activities of any authority executing or administering laws made by NAFDAC.
He recalled that NAFDAC had announced its decision to stop the registration of beverages in sachets and small bottles in January 2024 when the Director-General of the Agency informed the public that the agency will ensure that the validity of renewal of already registered products will not exceed January 2024.
The lawmaker expressed concern that the ban “runs counter to the spirit and letter” of the Constitution and “runs against the economic recovery plan” of the Bola Tinubu administration.
Agbodike also expressed concern that given the numerous economic challenges confronting poor Nigerians, the ban on the production of the said beverages will wreak more havoc and cause job losses.
He said the House of representatives is aware of the need to encourage the sustainability of small and medium scale enterprises in Nigeria, hence NAFDAC’s policy to place a ban on the production of beverages in sachets and small bottles will be counterproductive.
He also said NAFDAC’s ban will encourage unscrupulous elements to go about the production of such drinks and products without recourse to the regulatory agency.
Adopting the motion, the lawmakers gave the committee four weeks to carry out their investigation and report back for further legislative action.
