NAFDAC Debunks Suspension Rumour, Insists Sachet Alcohol Ban Remains in Force

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has debunked reports alleging that the Federal Government directed a suspension of the ban on sachet alcohol and alcoholic beverages packaged in PET bottles below 200ml, describing the claims as false and misleading.

In a statement issued on Thursday, NAFDAC clarified that no such directive was received from the Federal Government and reaffirmed that the sachet alcohol ban remains fully in force. The agency stressed that it continues to operate strictly within its statutory mandate and in alignment with federal public health policies.

According to NAFDAC, enforcement actions are ongoing, including the evacuation of violative sachet alcohol products and small-volume alcoholic drinks from manufacturing facilities. The agency noted that several manufacturers have already complied by halting production of the affected pack sizes.

NAFDAC previously disclosed that nearly 50 per cent of minors and underage individuals patronise outlets selling alcohol in sachets and small PET bottles. The agency said this data informed the regulatory decision aimed at curbing underage access to alcohol and reducing public health risks.

Reiterating its commitment to consumer protection and regulatory compliance, NAFDAC warned against the spread of unverified information capable of distorting government policy. It urged the public, industry stakeholders and the media to rely solely on official communication channels for accurate updates on the sachet alcohol ban.

The agency maintained that its priority remains safeguarding public health and ensuring strict adherence to established standards.