NAFDAC Says Sachet Alcohol Ban Is Aimed at Protecting Children and Young People
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has reiterated that its ban on alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and small bottles is aimed at protecting children and young people from the dangers of alcohol abuse, rather than targeting manufacturers or shutting down businesses.
According to the agency, the widespread availability of alcohol in sachets and small containers has made it cheap, easily accessible, and simple to conceal, especially for minors. NAFDAC noted that this situation has contributed significantly to underage drinking, addiction, and other social problems across the country.
NAFDAC Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, explained that the policy is rooted in public health concerns and backed by scientific evidence. She stressed that the agency cannot prioritize economic interests over the wellbeing of Nigerian children, warning that early exposure to alcohol poses long-term health and social risks.
The agency clarified that the ban affects only alcoholic drinks sold in sachets and small PET or glass bottles below 200 millilitres. Alcoholic beverages packaged in larger containers remain approved for sale. NAFDAC also dismissed claims that it had shut down alcohol-producing companies, explaining that enforcement actions are limited to non-compliant packaging lines.
NAFDAC further revealed that the policy followed years of engagement with industry stakeholders. In 2018, the agency signed a memorandum of understanding with manufacturers and relevant government bodies to phase out sachet alcohol over a five-year period. The deadline was later extended to December 2025 to allow producers enough time to adjust their operations.
The agency argued that warning labels such as “Not for children” have proven ineffective in preventing underage consumption, noting that many parents are unaware their children consume sachet alcohol because it is easy to hide. Reports from schools, according to NAFDAC, indicate that some students conceal sachet alcohol and consume it regularly.
NAFDAC maintained that the ban is a protective measure aimed at safeguarding the health and future of Nigerian youths. The agency called on manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to comply fully with the regulation, insisting that no further extensions would be granted beyond the agreed deadline.
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