The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has clarified that its enforcement of the ban on alcoholic beverages in sachets and small plastic or glass bottles is aimed at protecting children and young people, not punishing manufacturers.
In a statement on Thursday, January 29, NAFDAC director-general, Mojisola Adeyeye, said the policy was driven by public health concerns and mounting evidence that alcohol packaged in sachets and containers below 200 millilitres has contributed to increased underage drinking across Nigeria.
The agency recently began enforcement of the ban following a directive by the Senate, supported by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. Adeyeye noted that the small and inexpensive packaging of high-alcohol-content drinks makes them “easily accessible, affordable and concealable,” leading to widespread misuse among minors and even some commercial drivers.
“This ban is not punitive; it is protective. It is aimed at safeguarding the health and future of our children and youth by not allowing alcohol in small pack sizes,” the statement reads.
She also highlighted that labelling such products “not for children” is ineffective in Nigeria’s social context, as many parents remain unaware that their children are consuming sachet alcohol because it can be easily hidden.
“Report from schools show that children conceal the sachets. The agency did not close down any company that makes alcohol. The agency only banned alcohol in sachets and small containers less than 200ml,” the statement added.
NAFDAC recalled that manufacturers were given a six-year moratorium to phase out sachet and small-volume alcohol packaging, and the ban became effective after the expiration of this period. The agency noted that the current Senate resolution aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to the World Health Assembly’s global strategy to reduce harmful alcohol consumption and protect vulnerable populations, especially children and young people.
NAFDAC stressed that public health must take priority over economic gains, emphasizing that the wellbeing of Nigerians is a nation’s most valuable asset.
