Fresh Protests Erupt as NAFDAC Moves to Enforce Sachet Alcohol Ban in Abuja
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Tensions rise in Abuja as protesters accuse the National Agency of Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) of pushing ahead with enforcement of restrictions on sachet and small-bottle alcoholic drinks without adequate consultation.
Demonstrators, operating under the banner Concerned Citizens for Change, warn that the policy could trigger widespread job losses and economic disruption across the alcohol value chain.
Speaking to journalists, the group claims NAFDAC has commenced enforcement based on Senate-linked resolutions, despite earlier stakeholder agreements recommending a delay and the development of a National Alcohol Policy.
NAFDAC insists the measure is driven by public health concerns, particularly the impact of cheap, easily concealed alcohol on minors and commercial drivers.
The agency links sachet alcohol to rising cases of road accidents, domestic violence and school dropouts.
However, group spokesperson Oluoha Chukwudi says the enforcement contradicts outcomes of stakeholder meetings coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
“There was a clear agreement on a one-year extension and a comprehensive policy framework,” Chukwudi says. “This sudden enforcement undermines that consensus.”
The group disputes claims that sachet alcohol is the primary driver of underage drinking, citing studies and industry-funded responsible-drinking campaigns reportedly worth over ₦1 billion.
Chukwudi warns that immediate enforcement could wipe out millions of jobs and threaten trillions of naira in investments.
Protesters call on the health ministry to formally adopt a National Alcohol Policy and urge the Senate to halt enforcement until a transparent, multi-sectoral framework is in place.
Analysts say the dispute highlights the need for balanced regulation that protects public health without destabilising livelihoods.
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Korede Abdullah 
Oluwatobi Adu 
Otamere Gladness