The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has reaffirmed its commitment to fully enforce the ban on the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and bottles smaller than 200 milliliters by December 2025.
The decision aligns with directives from the Nigerian Senate and the Federal Ministry of Health, reinforcing NAFDAC’s mandate to protect public health—particularly among children, adolescents, and young adults—from the harmful effects of alcohol misuse.
According to NAFDAC, the policy aims to curb health and social risks such as addiction, liver damage, domestic violence, and road accidents, especially within low-income and vulnerable groups. Enforcement efforts, including factory inspections, market raids, and penalties for violators, are expected to intensify starting next month.
However, the move has sparked opposition from industry stakeholders, who warn that the ban could lead to the loss of over 100,000 jobs across the beverage sector and its supply chains. In response, NAFDAC has indicated plans to support manufacturers in transitioning to larger, safer packaging formats that comply with the new regulations.
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This decisive action underscores the government’s broader public health agenda to reduce substance abuse and promote responsible alcohol consumption in Nigeria.