NAFDAC survey reveals Rivers and Lagos lead in sachet and PET alcohol consumption among minors and underage persons in Nigeria

Rivers and Lagos States lead in the consumption of alcoholic drinks sold in sachets and PET bottles among minors and underage persons, a nationwide survey by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has revealed.

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NAFDAC said the study was conducted in collaboration with the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria.

Research and Data Solutions Ltd, Abuja, carried out the survey.

The study sampled 1,788 respondents across six states between June and August 2021.

It examined access to alcohol and drinking patterns among minors below 13 years, underaged persons aged 13 to 17, and adults.

Presenting the findings on Tuesday, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, described alcohol as one of the most widely abused substances among Nigerian youths.

She said easy availability and unrestricted access continue to fuel rising consumption among minors.

According to the report, 54.3 per cent of minors and underaged respondents obtained alcohol by themselves.

Nearly half, 49.9 per cent, purchased alcohol in sachets or PET bottles.

Rivers State recorded the highest figures, with 68.0 per cent sachet consumption and 64.5 per cent PET bottle purchases.

Lagos followed with 52.3 per cent sachet and 47.7 per cent PET bottle consumption.

Kaduna recorded 38.6 per cent sachet and 28.4 per cent PET bottle use.

The report showed higher sachet consumption among males than females.

It also found higher usage in rural areas than urban locations.

NAFDAC said minors and underaged persons also accessed alcohol from friends and relatives, social gatherings, and parents’ homes.

Among respondents who bought alcohol themselves, 47.2 per cent of minors and 48.8 per cent of underaged persons purchased sachets.

PET bottle purchases stood at 41.2 per cent for minors and 47.2 per cent for underaged respondents.

On drinking frequency, 63.2 per cent of minors and 54.0 per cent of underaged persons were occasional drinkers.

However, 9.3 per cent of minors and 25.2 per cent of underaged respondents reported daily alcohol consumption.

The report called for stricter regulation of alcohol packaging.

It said limiting access to small, easily concealed pack sizes could significantly reduce underage drinking.

NAFDAC recommended a ban on sachets and alcohol bottles below 200 millilitres.

The agency urged parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to take action.

It stressed that alcohol consumption by children should raise immediate concern.

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The report said the findings highlight the urgent need for policy reforms and sustained public awareness campaigns to curb underage drinking nationwide.