Politics

Senate Urges NAFDAC To Enforce Ban On Sachet Alcohol By December

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on November 7th, 2025.

The Nigerian Senate has called on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to fully implement its proposed ban on the production and sale of sachet and small-bottle alcoholic beverages by December 2025.

The upper legislative chamber made the resolution following growing concerns over the widespread consumption of cheap alcoholic drinks packaged in sachets and small plastic bottles, which have been linked to rising cases of alcohol abuse, addiction among youths, and various health and social challenges across the country.

During plenary, lawmakers emphasized that sachet alcohol poses a serious public health risk and contributes to moral and social decay, particularly among underage drinkers and commercial drivers. The Senate noted that the affordability and easy accessibility of such products make them a major factor fueling reckless behavior and accidents.

Speaking on the motion, several senators expressed support for NAFDAC’s renewed efforts to regulate the alcohol industry in line with international standards. They urged the agency to ensure strict compliance by manufacturers while providing adequate time for producers to phase out existing stock before the December deadline.

According to the Senate, enforcing the ban would not only protect public health but also promote responsible alcohol consumption in Nigeria. However, some lawmakers appealed to NAFDAC to work closely with industry stakeholders to minimize the economic impact of the policy on small-scale producers and workers in the beverage sector.

The resolution also called on the Federal Ministry of Health to intensify nationwide awareness campaigns on the dangers of excessive alcohol intake, especially among young Nigerians.

NAFDAC had earlier announced plans to prohibit the sale of alcoholic drinks in sachets and PET bottles smaller than 200ml, citing evidence that such packaging encourages underage drinking and undermines national efforts to curb substance abuse.

With the Senate’s latest directive, the enforcement of the ban is now expected to gain full legislative backing, signaling a significant step toward protecting public health and promoting social responsibility in Nigeria’s alc

ohol industry.