The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has clarified that the recent ministerial lifting of the sachet alc+hol ban is only a temporary measure — not a permanent reversal.
Speaking in Abuja, the Director of the FCT Directorate, Kenneth Azikiwe, confirmed that the suspension of the ban is valid only until December 31, 2025, after which full enforcement will begin.
“There is a ministerial lifting on the ban of sachet alc+hol, but it is only temporary and will be reviewed by December 31, 2025,” Azikiwe stated. He urged Nigerians to disregard any misinformation suggesting that the restriction has been permanently removed.
According to him, the temporary relief was introduced to allow more time for collaboration between manufacturers and regulators to ensure a smooth and effective implementation of the eventual ban.
Azikiwe also highlighted NAFDAC’s nationwide awareness campaign, revealing that all 36 states have been sensitised. He emphasised that distributors have been cautioned against selling alcohol to anyone under 18, a warning that is also required on all product labels.
He praised the Distillers and Beverages Association of Nigeria for supporting the agency’s public sensitisation efforts and reaffirmed NAFDAC’s commitment to regulating alc+hol sales and consumption.
By the end of 2025, sachet and small bottle alcohol products (below 200ml) will be completely phased out in accordance with the agency’s enforcement plan.