NAFDAC Sachet Alcohol Ban Under Review, SGF Seeks Health Ministry’s Clarification

NAFDAC Sachet Alcohol Ban Under Review, SGF Seeks Health Ministry’s Clarification

The Federal Government is reassessing the proposed enforcement of the ban on sachet alcoholic beverages and 200ml PET bottle spirits scheduled for implementation by December 2025. This follows formal engagement initiated by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), requesting counsel from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

In an official correspondence dated 1st December, 2025 addressed to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, the Permanent Secretary (General Services), M.S. Danjuma, writing on behalf of the SGF, referenced concerns raised by the House Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control. The committee’s letter, Ref. No. NASS/10/HR/CT.53/77, dated 13th November 2025, noted that resolutions earlier passed by the House of Representatives have not been implemented.

It will be recalled that on Thursday, 14th March 2024, the House of Representatives deliberated on the committee’s investigative findings regarding NAFDAC’s decision to ban the sale and distribution of sachet alcohol and small-volume PET bottle spirits. Based on the committee’s report, lawmakers advised that the ban be suspended, citing lingering concerns affecting key stakeholders and calling for further review and engagement.

However, in the latest development, the House asserts that despite the resolution, NAFDAC has continued to move towards enforcement without regard for parliamentary directives.

The recent communication, signed by Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, Deputy Chairman of the Committee, urged the Ministry to use its good offices to ensure the full implementation of the 2024 resolution, as contained in the resolution.

While awaiting the Ministry’s response, the SGF emphasized that the government seeks a clear and informed position before taking a final decision on whether to proceed with or suspend the planned December 2025 ban.