Nigeria Bans Sachet Alcohol to Combat Underage Drinking

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a crackdown on sachet alcohol and bottles containing less than 200ml, with enforcement set to begin on January 1, 2026. This initiative was announced during a joint press conference in Abuja by Professor Mojisola Adeyey, the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

The campaign aims to address alarming survey findings that indicate a high rate of alcohol consumption among minors, with 54.3% of underage individuals reportedly obtaining alcohol from various sources. The ban follows extensive consultations and concerns raised by industry groups regarding the impact of high-concentration alcohol sachets.

The Ministry of Health, led by Professor Muhammad Pate, has supported this initiative, emphasizing the health risks associated with underage drinking, including potential damage to brain development. The enforcement of this ban is part of a broader strategy to reduce alcohol-related harm among youth in Nigeria.