Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government has announced a nationwide ban on the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic drinks packaged in sachets and bottles smaller than 200 millilitres, citing rising cases of alcohol misuse and public health concerns.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) confirmed that full enforcement will begin on January 1, 2026.
Announcing the ban in Abuja, NAFDAC Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, said the decision aims to curb addiction and protect minors and commercial drivers who often abuse cheap, high-alcohol sachet products.
“This decision is a proactive step to protect Nigerians from the social and health risks associated with unregulated alcohol intake,” Adeyeye said. “These small packaged drinks are inexpensive and easy to conceal, making them major contributors to misuse, violence, and addiction.”
She added that the government has approved the recruitment of 1,000 new enforcement officers to strengthen monitoring and compliance nationwide.
Adeyeye stressed that the restriction affects only spirit drinks packaged in sachets and bottles under 200ml, not all alcoholic beverages.
The ban aligns with a 2018 Memorandum of Understanding between regulators and industry groups aimed at phasing out sachet alcohol. The deadline was later extended to December 2025 to allow producers to adjust operations.
“This is about protecting the health and future of our young people. We must not sacrifice public safety for short-term economic gains,” she said.
About the Author
Koko Maxwella 
Otamere Gladness 
Oluwatobi Adu