The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has clarified that the recent lifting of the ban on sachet alcoholic drinks is temporary and will only remain in effect until December 31, 2025.
Director of NAFDAC’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Directorate, Kenneth Azikiwe, made the clarification in Abuja on Monday, urging the public to disregard misinformation suggesting that the federal government had permanently lifted the ban.
“There is a ministerial lifting on the ban of sachet alcohol, but it is only temporary and will be reviewed by December 31, 2025,” Azikiwe explained. “After this date, full enforcement of the ban will commence.”
He noted that the temporary relief was granted to give manufacturers and regulatory bodies adequate time to collaborate and ensure a more structured and effective phase-out of sachet alcohol products, particularly those below 200 millilitres.
Azikiwe emphasized NAFDAC’s ongoing nationwide sensitisation campaign, which has reached all states and targeted distributors and vendors. He also reminded the public that alcoholic beverages must not be sold to individuals under the age of 18, a requirement clearly stated on product labels.
The FCT Director commended the Distillers and Beverages Association of Nigeria for supporting the awareness drive and reiterated NAFDAC’s commitment to regulating alcohol consumption in the interest of public health.
