The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has clarified that the recent ministerial lifting of the ban on sachet alcohol is only a temporary measure, expiring by the end of 2025.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday, Kenneth Azikiwe, Director of NAFDAC’s Federal Capital Territory Directorate, stressed that the decision should not be misinterpreted as a permanent reversal of the nationwide ban.
“There is a ministerial lifting on the ban of sachet alcohol, but it is only temporary and will be reviewed by Dec. 31, 2025,” Azikiwe explained. “After this date, the full enforcement of the ban will commence.”
He further noted that the temporary suspension was introduced to provide manufacturers and regulatory bodies with adequate time to develop and implement a more structured approach to the ban’s enforcement.
“The minister granted this temporary relief to allow manufacturers and regulators time to collaborate and ensure a more structured and effective implementation of the ban,” he said.
NAFDAC, according to Azikiwe, has been actively conducting public sensitisation campaigns across the country to raise awareness about the regulation and promote responsible alcohol consumption.
“We have sensitised distributors, and we’ve emphasised that alcohol should not be sold to individuals under the age of 18, which is also clearly indicated on product labels,” he added.
Azikiwe also praised the Distillers and Beverages Association of Nigeria for their partnership in the public awareness initiative and reaffirmed NAFDAC’s commitment to safeguarding public health.
He reiterated that all sachet alcohol products containing less than 200 millilitres would be completely phased out after December 31, 2025, marking the start of full enforcement.
