The Federal Government of Nigeria has directed the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to immediately suspend enforcement of the ban on sachet alcohol and beverages in plastic bottles under 200ml.
The directive, issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) on December 15, 2025, halts all related actions pending consultations and a final policy decision.
The suspension follows concerns raised by the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control, which highlighted potential economic impacts on manufacturers, retailers, and low-income consumers.
The OSGF emphasized that any enforcement without clearance would be invalid, creating uncertainty on the streets where the phase-out was initially set to begin in January 2026.
NAFDAC had planned the ban to reduce alcohol abuse among minors and drivers, citing health and safety risks from small, affordable packaging.
However, the agency clarified that the suspension is temporary until December 31, 2025, with full enforcement resuming in 2026 to allow for structured implementation.
Civil society groups and industry stakeholders have reacted strongly. Some, like the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), urged the government to revisit the policy to prevent job losses and economic strain, while others, including Muslim lecturers, supported the ban for public health benefits. Protests and threats to shut down NAFDAC offices underscore the tension between regulatory intent and socioeconomic realities.
The suspension follows concerns from the House of Representatives amid broader health challenges like the Lassa fever outbreak in Benue and Jigawa.
The decision reflects ongoing debates on balancing public health with economic viability in Nigeria’s beverage sector. As consultations proceed, stakeholders await a final directive that addresses these concerns.