The Federal Government, through the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), today formally flagged off a joint nationwide campaign to enforce the ban on the production, distribution, sale, and consumption of alcoholic drinks in sachets and in PET or glass bottles smaller than 200 millilitres.
The ban, which became effective on January 1, 2026, follows years of consultations, stakeholder engagements, and multiple extensions granted to manufacturers to transition away from these packaging formats. It was reinforced by recent resolutions from the Nigerian Senate urging strict compliance to safeguard the health and future of Nigerian youth.
NAFDAC Director-General, Professor Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, emphasized that the measure targets harmful consumption patterns, especially underage drinking. Sachet and small-bottle alcohols are affordable, easily concealable, and often accessible to minors, contributing to early exposure, addiction risks, and long-term health damage.
“We are here for our children,” Prof. Adeyeye stated during the campaign launch in Abuja. “This enforcement is in the interest of public health and the future of our nation. Recent surveys and alarming trends in alcohol abuse among minors have made this action imperative. Restricting these small, pocket-sized packages will significantly limit access by underage individuals and reduce reckless consumption.”
The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, who flagged off the campaign, highlighted its focus on behavioural change and public awareness. The initiative will involve nationwide sensitization programs, community engagements, media campaigns, and collaboration with state governments to ensure widespread compliance across Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“This is not just about enforcement; it is about orienting our society toward responsible behaviour and protecting vulnerable groups,” Issa-Onilu noted. “We call on all stakeholders manufacturers, distributors, retailers, parents, and the public to support this critical public health intervention.”
The Federal Government has dismissed recent fake news and misinformation suggesting a suspension or reversal of the ban, reaffirming its commitment to full implementation.
Enforcement teams will monitor markets, shops, and production facilities, with sanctions applied for non-compliance in line with existing regulations.
This policy aligns with global best practices in alcohol control, where several countries have restricted small-pack alcohol to curb youth access and related harms.
The Federal Government urges all citizens to report violations and join the campaign to build a healthier, safer Nigeria for future generations.