NAFDAC Denies Order to Halt Sachet Alcohol Ban

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has dismissed reports claiming that the Federal Government instructed it to halt enforcement actions on sachet alcohol and 200ml PET bottle alcoholic beverages.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the agency described the report as false and misleading, noting that it had not received any official directive from the Federal Government to suspend its regulatory activities.

Earlier reports had quoted a statement attributed to Terrence Kuanum, Special Adviser on Public Affairs to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, suggesting that NAFDAC had been directed to pause enforcement related to the proposed restrictions on sachet and small-sized alcoholic drinks.

However, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, clarified that the agency operates strictly within its legal mandate and in accordance with officially communicated government policies.

“The publication is inaccurate and does not reflect any formal communication received by the agency. At no time has NAFDAC been instructed to suspend its regulatory or enforcement actions on sachet alcohol products,” she stated.

Adeyeye reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting public health, ensuring regulatory compliance, and carrying out its duties transparently and in line with existing laws and due process. She added that any changes to national regulatory policies would be communicated through official government channels.

She urged the public, industry stakeholders, and media organisations to ignore the unverified report and rely solely on information released through NAFDAC’s official platforms and authorised government communication outlets.

NAFDAC also warned that the spread of unconfirmed information could trigger unnecessary public concern, economic uncertainty, or misinterpretation of government policy. The agency reiterated its dedication to safeguarding public health, economic stability, and the national interest.

The regulation of sachet alcohol and small-volume alcoholic beverages has remained a contentious issue in Nigeria, with debates centred on underage consumption, substance abuse, and broader public health concerns.