The National Agency of Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, is set to commence the enforcement of the ban on the production and sale of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and small bottles below 200ml by December 2025.
The Director General of the agency, Mojisola Adeyeye, gave the order at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.
Adeyeye warned that no further extension will be entertained beyond December 2025.
“This ban is not punitive; it is protective. It is aimed at safeguarding the health and future of our children and youth.
“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,” she said.
According to her, the move was rooted in scientific evidence and public health considerations despite pushback from some stakeholders, including manufacturers.
She added that the directive comes against the backdrop of a resolution by the Senate highlighting concerns over cheap alcohol drinks packaged in sachets being easily accessed by minors and contributing to social problems.
The NAFDAC boss further pointed out that the agency had earlier signed a Memorandum of Understanding with industry stakeholders for a phased ban, with previous deadlines pushed from 2023 and now December 2025.
She, however, noted that the Senate’s resolution is absolute and no further extension will be granted and urged retailers and manufacturers to comply with the directive.
