Nigeria launches nationwide enforcement and public awareness campaign on the ban of alcoholic drinks in sachets and bottles under 200ml to protect youth

The Federal Government on Tuesday launched a nationwide enforcement and public enlightenment campaign on the ban of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and small PET and glass bottles under 200 millilitres.

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The joint press conference in Abuja was organised by the National Orientation Agency in collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.

The ban, effective from January 1, 2026, targets production, distribution, and sale of alcohol in sachets and small bottles to curb underage drinking and harmful consumption patterns.

NAFDAC Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, said the move followed extensive consultations, extensions, and alarming survey findings showing high alcohol consumption among minors.

“About 50 per cent of children drink alcohol. Of those, nearly half obtain drinks in sachets because they are easy to conceal,” Adeyeye noted.

She explained that discussions on regulating high-concentration alcohol in sachets date back to 2018.

Former Minister of Health Prof. Isaac Adewole granted a five-year moratorium, which ended in February 2024, and enforcement resumed after further extensions and Senate directives.

The national survey revealed children as young as nine consume alcohol, with binge drinking reported in some states.

Adeyeye highlighted the health risks, including permanent brain damage, memory loss, and increased likelihood of substance dependence.

“Alcohol abuse is linked to banditry, kidnapping, and progression to hard drugs. Limiting access through small pack sizes will reduce underage drinking,” she said.

NOA Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, described the campaign as a united front to protect Nigerians. He said the agency will leverage its 818 offices across all 774 LGAs to ensure awareness and compliance.

“Consumer protection is public protection. Market responsibility is national responsibility,” Issa-Onilu stressed.

Parents, community leaders, retailers, and distributors are urged to comply with the new policy to ensure youth safety and a healthier, more responsible society.