
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has clarified its position on the nationwide ban on sachet alcohol.
Mr. Kenneth Azikiwe, Director of the agency's FCT Directorate, stated in Abuja on Monday during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the temporary suspension of the ban remains in effect only until December 31, 2025.
He stressed that the recent ministerial decision to lift the ban is not permanent and urged the public to ignore any misinformation claiming the restriction has been permanently removed.
“There is a ministerial lifting on the ban of sachet alcohol, but it is only temporary and will be reviewed by Dec. 31, 2025.
“After this date, the full enforcement of the ban will commence.
“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,” Azikiwe stated.”
He highlighted NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts to sensitise the public across the country, noting that awareness campaigns had reached every state.
“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 commended the Distillers and Beverages Association of Nigeria (DIBAN) for supporting the awareness drive.
He reassured the public that NAFDAC remained fully committed to regulating alcohol consumption and reiterated that sachet alcohol products containing less than 200 milliliters would be phased out after Dec. 2025.