The Federal Government has directed the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to immediately suspend enforcement of its ban on sachet alcohol and alcoholic products in PET bottles below 200ml.
The directive, issued on Wednesday by Terrence Kuanum, the Special Adviser on Public Affairs to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), also instructs NAFDAC to stop sealing factories and warehouses over the issue.
The suspension follows concerns raised by the SGF’s office and the National Security Adviser (ONSA) about the security and economic implications of enforcing the ban before full implementation of the National Alcohol Policy.
The statement read:
“All actions, decisions, or enforcement measures relating to the ongoing ban on sachet alcohol are to be suspended pending final consultations and implementation of the National Alcohol Policy.”
Authorities warned that continuing enforcement without a harmonised policy framework was causing economic disruptions, threatening employment, and heightening security risks across communities.
The suspension provides relief to manufacturers, who had warned that the ban could jeopardise over 500,000 direct jobs, 5 million indirect jobs, and investments worth about ₦1.9 trillion. Small and medium-sized enterprises along the alcohol supply chain also face reduced risks of shutdowns and disruptions.
NAFDAC first introduced the ban on sachet and sub-200ml alcohol in February 2024 to address health concerns, particularly among minors. Implementation was temporarily lifted, then extended to December 31, 2025. The agency had planned to enforce the ban permanently after that date.
The Federal Government said it will issue a final decision after consultations, balancing public health, economic stability, and national security considerations.
