FG Bans Alcohol in Sachets and Small Bottles, Sets 2026 Deadline for Full Enforcement

In a major public health move, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially banned the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and bottles below 200 millilitres. The policy, driven by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), aims to curb alcohol abuse and protect the nation’s youth from early exposure to harmful substances.

The NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, announced the ban during a press briefing in Abuja, explaining that full enforcement will begin on January 1, 2026. She added that the Federal Government has also approved the recruitment of 1,000 new officers to boost NAFDAC’s enforcement strength and ensure nationwide compliance.

Adeyeye described the decision as “a duty-bound action” to safeguard Nigerians from the dangers of cheap and easily accessible alcohol. “Alcohol in sachets and small bottles is cheap, accessible, and easily concealable, making it a major driver of misuse and addiction, especially among minors and commercial drivers,” she said.

The NAFDAC boss noted that unregulated consumption of high-alcohol drinks in small packages has become both a public health and security concern, leading to road accidents, domestic violence, and youth delinquency. She stressed that the move is protective, not punitive, and aligns with global best practices. “We cannot continue to trade national well-being for short-term economic benefits. The health of our people is the true wealth of the nation,” she added.

This regulation specifically targets spirit drinks packaged in sachets and bottles below 200ml, not all alcoholic beverages. The ban builds on a 2018 Memorandum of Understanding between NAFDAC, the Federal Ministry of Health, and industry stakeholders, which initially set a January 2024 deadline — later extended to December 2025.

Adeyeye confirmed that no further extension will be granted, urging manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to comply. She also reaffirmed Nigeria’s alignment with the World Health Organization’s strategy to reduce harmful alcohol use.

As the 2026 enforcement date draws near, NAFDAC plans to work with the Federal Ministry of Health, FCCPC, and the National Orientation Agency to raise awareness nationwide. “This is a shared responsibility. We must act collectively to protect the health, safety, and future of our nation,” she concluded.