Dare Babalola
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced a total ban on the production, distribution, and sale of alcohol in sachets and small bottles, effective December 2025.
The agency cited concerns over public health and safety as the reason behind the move, adding that the regulation will affect products smaller than 200 millilitres.
This was made known during a press briefing on Tuesday by NAFDAC’s Director General, Mojisola Adeyeye.
Adeyeye noted that the decision was part of efforts to address the growing misuse of cheap alcoholic drinks among youths and drivers.
“The proliferation of high-alcohol-content beverages in sachets and small containers has made such products easily accessible, affordable, and concealable, leading to widespread misuse and addiction among minors and commercial drivers.
“This public health menace has been linked to increased incidences of domestic violence, road accidents, school dropouts, and social vices across communities,” Adeyeye said.
Adeyeye further explained that the directive followed a Senate resolution raising concerns about the availability of low-cost alcoholic beverages in sachets, which have reportedly contributed to social and health problems.
She recalled that NAFDAC had previously entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with stakeholders to implement a phased withdrawal of the products, with earlier deadlines postponed from 2023 to 2025.
However, she stressed that the Senate’s latest resolution is final, warning that no further extensions will be granted.
She urged manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to begin full compliance ahead of the enforcement date.
Adeyeye clarified that the ban is a protective measure, not a punitive one, aimed at safeguarding public health.
“This ban is not punitive; it is protective. It is aimed at safeguarding the health and future of our children and youth.
“The decision is rooted in scientific evidence and public health considerations. We cannot continue to sacrifice the well-being of Nigerians for short-term economic gain. The health of a nation is its true wealth,” she added.
