The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has reaffirmed that the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and in bottles less than 200 millilitres will be fully banned by December 2025.
NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, announced the enforcement deadline on Tuesday during a press briefing in Abuja. She said the measure is aimed at curbing the rising abuse of low-cost alcoholic drinks among young people and commercial drivers.
Adeyeye noted that sachet and small-sized alcoholic beverages have become easily accessible, affordable, and concealable, leading to widespread misuse and addiction among minors. She added that the trend has contributed to domestic violence, road accidents, school dropouts, and other social problems across communities.
Her announcement follows a recent Senate resolution directing the agency to proceed with the full enforcement of the ban by December 2025—without further extensions.
The motion leading to the resolution was sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (Cross River South), who expressed concern over repeated postponements since the ban was first scheduled for 2023. He warned that continued delays were undermining public health efforts and encouraging manufacturers to lobby for more time.
Adeyeye recalled that NAFDAC had previously entered into an agreement with industry stakeholders to gradually phase out the products, but stressed that the new Senate directive is final.
She called on manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to begin compliance immediately, adding that the decision is backed by scientific evidence and prioritizes public health.
“This ban is not punitive; it is protective,” Adeyeye said. “We must safeguard the health and future of our children and youth. The health of the nation is its true wealth.”
