“No more sachet alcohol from December” – NAFDAC

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced that the nationwide ban on the production and sale of sachet alcoholic drinks will be fully enforced starting December 31, 2025.

Kenneth Azikiwe, Director of NAFDAC’s FCT Directorate, clarified this during a media briefing in Abuja on Monday.

He explained that the recent ministerial decision to temporarily lift the ban will expire at the end of 2025.

“There is a ministerial lifting on the ban of sachet alcohol, but it is only temporary and will be reviewed by December 31, 2025. After this date, full enforcement of the ban will begin,” Azikiwe said.

He added that the temporary lift was to allow manufacturers and regulators time to work together for a smoother, more effective ban implementation.

Azikiwe also warned the public to ignore false reports claiming the ban had been permanently lifted.

“The minister granted this temporary relief to give manufacturers and regulators time to collaborate and ensure a more structured and effective implementation of the ban,” he stated.

NAFDAC is actively running awareness campaigns nationwide and has informed distributors about responsible alcohol sales.

“We have sensitised distributors and stressed that alcohol should not be sold to anyone under 18, as clearly stated on product labels,” Azikiwe added.

He also praised the Distillers and Beverages Association of Nigeria for supporting the public education efforts.

Finally, NAFDAC confirmed that sachet alcohol products containing less than 200 millilitres will be phased out after December 2025, as part of its goal to regulate alcohol use and protect public health.