NAFDAC Resumes Enforcement of Sachet Alcohol Ban to Protect Public Health

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has resumed the enforcement of the ban on the sale of alcohol beverages in sachets and small bottles below 200ml in Nigeria. The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, emphasized the move is to protect children, adolescents, and young adults from the dangers of alcohol misuse.

NAFDAC's action aligns with a resolution by the Nigerian Senate and aims to address the widespread availability of high-alcohol content beverages in small sachets, contributing to underage drinking and other social vices. The ban, initially signed in December 2018 and extended to December 2025, has sparked reactions from industry stakeholders, including protests by the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria, Nigerian Labour Congress, and Trade Union Congress.

NAFDAC urges compliance with the ban and emphasizes collaboration with relevant government agencies to ensure public health and safety.