The Federal Government has directed the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to immediately suspend all enforcement actions linked to the proposed ban on sachet alcohol and 200ml PET bottle alcoholic drinks.
The government also instructed the agency to stop sealing factories, warehouses, and distribution outlets over the issue pending further consultations.
The directive was disclosed in a statement issued in Abuja by Terrence Kuanum, Special Adviser on Public Affairs to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
Security and Economic Concerns Raised
According to the statement, the decision followed a joint intervention by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA).
Both offices reportedly raised concerns about the broader implications of enforcing the ban without a fully implemented National Alcohol Policy.
The government emphasized that all measures connected to the ongoing restriction of sachet alcohol products must be put on hold until final consultations are completed and a comprehensive policy directive is issued.
While the National Alcohol Policy has already been endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Health in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive, authorities insisted that enforcement actions must not proceed until implementation frameworks are properly aligned.
Factories and Warehouses to Remain Open
The suspension covers factory shutdowns, sealing of warehouses, and public enforcement campaigns targeting sachet alcohol products.
Officials noted that what appeared to be a “de facto ban” had already begun affecting businesses across the country.
The statement highlighted concerns over economic disruptions, job losses, supply chain breakdowns, and risks to informal distribution networks that support thousands of livelihoods nationwide.
The SGF’s office reaffirmed that it had earlier directed a suspension of enforcement measures in December 2025, pending stakeholder consultations and a final government position.
National Assembly Weighs In
The government also confirmed receiving correspondence from the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control dated November 13, 2025.
The letter, referenced NASS/10/HR/CT.53/77 and signed by Deputy Chairman Hon. Uchenna Okonkwo, expressed concerns about NAFDAC’s planned enforcement steps and cited existing National Assembly resolutions on the matter.
Authorities stated that legislative positions, public health priorities, economic considerations, and national security implications are currently under review before a final decision is reached.
National Security Implications
The involvement of the National Security Adviser signals that the issue extends beyond regulatory enforcement.
The government warned that premature action without coordinated policy implementation could heighten unemployment, disrupt local economies, and potentially create security challenges in affected communities.
The Federal Government assured Nigerians, industry stakeholders, and public health advocates that a definitive resolution would be communicated after thorough consultations and inter-agency coordination.
Officials said the final decision will balance public health objectives, economic stability, and national security interests.
