Residents of Kaduna State have applauded the federal government for banning the production of alcoholic drinks in sachets.

In separate interviews on Tuesday in Kaduna, the residents said the ban would save lives and reduce criminal activities, especially among youths, in Kaduna.

Ayuba Bako, a medical scientist, said the ban would reduce the abuse of alcoholic substances and ensure the youth were engaged in productive activities.

Mr Bako added that there was a link between harmful intake of alcohol in sachets and diseases like cancer and tuberculosis, as well as injuries and accidents.

“I hope the ban will yield good results because we have laws, but some are poorly enforced,’’ he said.

Amina Musa, a civil servant, said the ban was long overdue, adding many young people had lost their lives due to excess consumption.

“This is a welcome idea. Many parents have been praying for this as many of our young boys have lost their lives due to the excess consumption of alcohol in sachets.

“These drinks have made many of our children drop out of school and engage in violent and immoral acts,” ’she said.

Daniel Achi, a businessman, also applauded the ban, saying it would reduce vices connected with alcohol intake.

“I just buried a nephew two days ago because of excess consumption of sachet drinks. These drinks cause harm to society because they are cheap and can be found everywhere.

“With little money, you can buy it. So, there are more consumers of sachet drinks than drinks in bottles. I hope the government will enforce the ban to ensure total compliance,” Mr Achi said.

Usman Bashir, a mechanic, also lauded the ban, adding that many young people take it as an energy booster for work.

“I am happy with the ban and hope something good comes out because many young people take it as an energy booster,” said Mr Bashir. “Some of them take these sachet drinks as early as 6:00 a.m. before going to work, and they are already tired by the time they start working. I advise the relevant authorities to ensure total compliance with the ban.”

(NAN)