A disturbing new report reveals a significant public health crisis in Nigeria: widespread underage alcohol consumption. The report, commissioned by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in collaboration with the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN), paints a grim picture of easy access and social acceptance that fuels this dangerous trend.

The survey, conducted between June and August 2021, found that a staggering 25.2 percent of Nigerian youths aged between 13 and 17 consume alcohol *every day*. The study also revealed that an alarming 9.3 percent of children even younger, below the age of 13, are also daily alcohol consumers. These figures highlight the urgent need for intervention and stricter enforcement of regulations to protect vulnerable children.

Easy access to alcohol is a key driver of this problem. The report indicates that 54.3 percent of underage individuals are able to purchase alcohol for themselves, often without any challenge from retailers. This points to a significant failure in enforcing existing laws regarding the sale of alcohol to minors. The availability of alcohol in sachets and small plastic bottles further exacerbates the problem. NAFDAC notes that these formats make concealment and impulsive purchases much easier for children.

Lagos, Rivers, and Kaduna states recorded the highest instances of underage individuals acquiring alcohol in sachets and PET bottles. This geographical concentration suggests that targeted interventions in these states could yield significant positive results. Efforts should focus on working with retailers, community leaders, and parents to change attitudes and practices surrounding alcohol sales and consumption.

Beyond retail outlets, the report sheds light on the role of social settings and homes in enabling underage drinking. Nearly half (49.9 percent) of underage respondents said they obtain alcohol from friends or relatives. Another 45.9 percent access it at social gatherings. Worryingly, 21.7 percent reported sourcing alcohol directly from their parents’ homes. This indicates that the problem extends beyond regulatory enforcement and necessitates a shift in social norms and parental awareness.

The implications of this widespread underage alcohol consumption are far-reaching. It can lead to health problems, impaired cognitive development, increased risk of accidents and injuries, and a higher likelihood of developing alcohol dependence later in life. NAFDAC and DIBAN must work together to implement stricter regulations, raise public awareness, and engage with communities to address this growing public health crisis and safeguard the future of Nigeria's youth.