By December there will be total ban on Action Bitters & other sachet alcoholic drinks—NAFFAC
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has given December 2025 date for the total ban on sachet alcoholic drinks across the country.
The clarification became necessary given the stance of the agency regarding the nationwide ban on sachet alcohol.
This was contained in a statement by the Director of the FCT Directorate of the agency, Kenneth Azikiwe, in Abuja on Monday.
Azikiwe stated that the temporary lifting of the ban was only valid until Dec. 31, 2025.
The Director emphasized that the recent ministerial lifting of the ban was not permanent. He, therefore, urged the public to disregard misinformation suggesting that the government had permanently lifted the restriction.
He said, “There is a ministerial lifting on the ban of sachet alcohol, but it is only temporary and will be reviewed by Dec. 31, 2025.
“After this date, the full enforcement of the ban will commence.
“The Minister granted this temporary relief to allow manufacturers and regulators time to collaborate. And to ensure a more structured and effective implementation of the ban.
Azikiwe stated NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts to sensitise the public across the country. He noted that awareness campaigns had reached every state.
“We have sensitised distributors. And we’ve emphasized that alcohol should not be sold to individuals under the age of 18. Which is also clearly indicated on product labels,” he added.
Azikiwe also commended the Distillers and Beverages Association of Nigeria for supporting the awareness drive.
The Director reassured the public that NAFDAC remained fully committed to regulating alcohol consumption. Just as he reiterated that sachet alcohol products containing less than 200 millilitres would be phased out after December 2025.
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