NAFDAC Shuts 16 Water Factories in Rivers

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has shut down 16 sachet water factories in Rivers State over regulatory breaches, including operating without valid licences and poor hygienic conditions.

The agency carried out the enforcement exercise across four local government areas—Asari-Toru, Akuku-Toru, Degema and Ikwerre—during an inspection operation in the state.

According to a statement by NAFDAC South-South Director, Chukwuma Oligbu, the affected factories were found to be operating with expired licences, poor sanitation practices, and in some cases, without registration at all.

He added that some facilities were using unsafe production methods, including dirty filters and improper packaging practices, while others had incorrect labelling and factory addresses.

“The operation which was carried out in the four LGAs led to the closure of 16 sachet water factories while their owners were invited to the NAFDAC office,” the statement said.

NAFDAC warned producers of sachet water to comply with regulations or face enforcement actions, stressing that all licences must be valid and properly renewed.

The agency also cautioned against siting water factories in prohibited locations such as filling stations, describing such practices as violations of safety standards.

It further stated that any obstruction of its officials during enforcement would attract arrest and prosecution.

NAFDAC urged members of the public to report illegal or unsafe production of regulated products, saying such information would help prevent harmful goods from entering circulation.