The Nigerian government has directed an immediate suspension of all enforcement actions related to the proposed ban on sachet alcohol and 200ml PET-bottled alcoholic drinks, pending consultations and a final policy decision.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), the suspension follows a correspondence from the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control.
The letter, dated November 13, 2025, and signed by the Deputy Chairman Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, flagged concerns over the proposed ban’s enforcement by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
According to the OSGF, all decisions, actions, or enforcement measures relating to the proposed ban are to be halted until consultations are concluded and a final directive is issued by the Secretary’s office.
Any enforcement action taken without proper clearance is considered invalid and should be disregarded by the public.
The government said it will carefully review legislative resolutions, economic implications, public health concerns, and broader national interests to ensure a balanced and lawful outcome.
NAFDAC had earlier planned to enforce a ban on the production, distribution, and sale of alcoholic drinks in sachets and small PET bottles by the end of December 2025, citing public health and safety concerns.
However, the move generated pushback from lawmakers and industry stakeholders, who raised questions about timing, economic impact, and implementation.
The suspension comes amid continued debate over the policy’s public health benefits versus its effects on the economy, employment, and regulatory coordination between government agencies and legislators.
