NAFDAC Weighs Sanctions as Manufacturers Defy Sachet Alcohol Ban

By Benson Daniel

The Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, has warned that manufacturers flouting the ban on the production and distribution of sachet alcoholic beverages could face severe regulatory sanctions.

She said the agency had observed continued violations of the directive despite repeated warnings and engagements with stakeholders in the alcoholic beverage industry. According to her, NAFDAC is reviewing appropriate enforcement measures against defaulting manufacturers to ensure full compliance with the ban.

Adeyeye stressed that the restriction on sachet and small volume alcoholic drinks was introduced to protect public health, particularly among young people who are more vulnerable to alcohol abuse due to the affordability and easy accessibility of such products. She noted that the agency remains committed to reducing harmful alcohol consumption and promoting responsible manufacturing practices.

The NAFDAC boss explained that while the agency had granted manufacturers a transition period to adjust their production and distribution processes, some companies have continued to produce or circulate prohibited products in violation of existing regulations.

She warned that manufacturers found guilty of breaching the directive could face penalties ranging from product seizures and factory inspections to licence suspension and other regulatory actions provided under Nigeria’s food and drug laws.

Industry stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions to the enforcement of the ban. While public health advocates have welcomed the move as a necessary step toward reducing alcohol related harm, some manufacturers and distributors argue that the policy could affect jobs, disrupt supply chains and reduce revenue within the beverage industry.

NAFDAC, however, maintained that public safety remains its foremost priority and urged all manufacturers, distributors and retailers to comply with the directive to avoid sanctions. The agency also appealed to consumers to support its efforts by reporting the sale or distribution of prohibited sachet alcoholic beverages.

The renewed warning signals NAFDAC’s determination to strengthen regulatory enforcement and ensure that all operators in the alcoholic beverage industry adhere strictly to established public health standards.