The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has released the findings of a national survey on underage drinking and alcohol abuse in Nigeria, conducted in collaboration with the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN) and executed by Research and Data Solutions Ltd., Abuja.

The study, carried out between June and August 2021, assessed access to alcohol and patterns of consumption among minors, underaged persons, and adults across the six geopolitical zones of the country.

The survey covered 1,788 respondents in six states: Gombe, Kaduna, FCT, Anambra, Lagos, and Rivers, using quantitative questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with retailers. Findings indicate that alcohol is widely accessible to minors and underage persons, with over half reportedly purchasing alcohol themselves, primarily from retailers selling products in sachets and small PET bottles.

According to NAFDAC, "Results further show that sachets and small PET bottles are the most commonly procured alcohol packaging among minors and underage consumers, due to their affordability, ease of concealment, and availability. The study also revealed that a significant proportion of minors and underage persons consume alcohol occasionally, while a concerning minority reported daily or weekly consumption.

"NAFDAC notes that the findings reinforce evidence that small, easily concealable alcohol pack sizes contribute significantly to underage drinking. The Agency reiterates that restricting such pack sizes, particularly sachets and bottles below 200 ml, can play a critical role in reducing access to alcohol by children and adolescents.

"The Agency calls on parents, guardians, educators, religious and community leaders to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing underage drinking. NAFDAC remains committed to evidence-based regulation and sustained stakeholder collaboration to curb alcohol abuse and safeguard the health and future of Nigerian children and youth."