By Oluwakemi Kindness
The House of Representatives is considering a new bill that seeks to establish a national framework for alcohol control in Nigeria, aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm and strengthening public health protection.
The proposed legislation, titled “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Control, Regulation and Reduction of Alcohol-Related Harm in Nigeria,” is sponsored by Oluwatimehin Adelegbe, Chairman of the House Adhoc Committee on Drug Trafficking, Tobacco, and Alcohol Abuse.
The bill has already passed its first reading and proposes stricter regulation of alcohol production, importation, distribution, marketing, and consumption across the country.
A central focus of the proposed law is the protection of minors and the promotion of responsible alcohol use nationwide.
Speaking on the bill, Adelegbe said the initiative responds to rising public health and social concerns linked to alcohol misuse.
“This Bill is not about prohibition, it is about protection, responsibility, and national development,” he said.
“Nigeria must adopt a modern, evidence-based framework that safeguards our youth while ensuring accountability within the alcohol industry.”
He explained that the proposal followed consultations with government agencies, public health experts, civil society organisations, and stakeholders in the alcohol industry.
A New Thing International Foundation, led by Ambassador Kenneth Anetor, provided technical support for the bill. Anetor said the legislation marks a shift towards preventive public health strategies.
“This legislation represents a shift from reactive interventions to preventive systems,” he said.
“It aligns Nigeria with global best practices while creating a balanced framework that protects public health and allows responsible industry participation.”
If passed, the bill will introduce a national alcohol control system, stricter rules on advertising and underage access, stronger public awareness campaigns, and improved enforcement mechanisms.
It will also promote data-driven policymaking on alcohol regulation and harm reduction.
Adelegbe urged stakeholders, including industry players, NGOs, and international partners, to engage in upcoming public hearings and committee reviews.
He added that the bill positions Nigeria within global efforts to reform alcohol policy and strengthen public health systems.
