Alcohol Abuse and Nigeria’s Social
Crisis: NAFDAC Boss Speaks Out
Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has sounded a stern warning about the devastating impact of alcohol consumption in Nigeria.
She asserts that alcohol abuse is not merely a health issue but a driver of insecurity, social instability, and moral decay.
According to her, the widespread availability of cheap sachet and small-pack alcoholic drinks has fueled banditry, youth suicide, unwanted pregnancies, road accidents, and other destructive behaviors.
Adeyeye stressed that alcohol lowers inhibitions and impairs judgment, making it a catalyst for violent crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery.
She further linked excessive drinking to rising cases of depression and suicide among young people, noting that early exposure to alcohol increases vulnerability to addiction and mental health struggles.
Beyond crime and mental health, she pointed to the role of alcohol in reckless sexual behavior, which often results in unwanted pregnancies and broken futures.
In response, NAFDAC has moved to enforce a ban on sachet and small-pack alcoholic beverages, arguing that their affordability and accessibility encourage abuse, especially among underage drinkers.
While the policy has sparked debate, critics worry about its economic impact on small businesses, the agency insists that the measure is necessary to protect public health and national security.
Adeyeye’s remarks serve as a sobering reminder that Nigeria’s battle against insecurity and social decay cannot be won without addressing the root causes of substance abuse. Her call underscores the urgent need for a holistic approach that combines regulation, education, rehabilitation, and stronger law enforcement.
The NAFDAC boss frames alcohol consumption not as a private vice but as a national crisis, one that threatens the health, safety, and future of Nigeria’s youth and society at large.
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