Senate Urges NAFDAC to Enforce Alcohol Sachet Phase-Out Deadline
The Nigerian Senate has issued a clear directive to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to fully implement the December 31, 2025 deadline for phasing out the production of alcoholic drinks in sachets and small bottles. This decision came after a motion of urgent national importance was introduced by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (Cross River South) during Tuesday’s plenary session.
Aligning with Global Standards
Senator Ekpenyong emphasized that the phase-out aligns with global regulatory standards aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm. He highlighted that in 2018, several key stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), and industry groups such as the Association of Food, Beverage and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE), signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to gradually eliminate sachet and small-bottle alcohol products.
He noted that in 2024, manufacturers were granted a one-year moratorium to exhaust existing stock and transition to acceptable packaging. However, he raised concerns about recent requests for further extensions, warning that this could weaken regulatory efforts and prolong the circulation of harmful products.
“As the December 2025 deadline approaches, some manufacturers are seeking an extension. We need to prioritise public health and uphold regulatory standards,” Ekpenyong stated.
Public Health Concerns
Ekpenyong also pointed out that the availability of high-strength alcohol in small, affordable sachets has contributed to increased consumption among young people. This, he said, has been linked to various social and health challenges. His remarks resonated with lawmakers who debated the motion, many of whom supported stricter enforcement of the policy.
Senator Anthony Ani (Ebonyi South) echoed these sentiments, stating that the prevalence of cheap alcohol products requires immediate attention. He stressed the need for decisive action to curb the negative impact of such products on society.
Senate President’s Ruling
In his ruling, Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the Senate’s directive as timely. He urged NAFDAC to ensure full compliance with the deadline, warning that further extensions could undermine national efforts to address substance abuse.
“This is a matter of urgency. The agency must act decisively to protect Nigerians, especially young people,” Akpabio said.
Implications for the Industry
The Senate’s resolution signals a firm stance against the continued production of alcoholic drinks in sachets and small bottles. It reflects a growing awareness of the public health risks associated with these products, particularly their accessibility and affordability to younger demographics.
Industry stakeholders have been closely watching the developments, as the deadline represents a significant shift in how alcohol is packaged and distributed in Nigeria. The move is expected to encourage producers to adopt more responsible packaging practices, which could lead to long-term benefits for public health.
Looking Ahead
With the December 2025 deadline now firmly in place, the focus will shift to how effectively NAFDAC can enforce the policy. The agency will need to work closely with manufacturers to ensure a smooth transition while maintaining strict adherence to regulatory standards.
As the conversation around alcohol regulation continues, the Senate’s directive serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing economic interests with public health concerns. The outcome of this phase-out will likely set a precedent for future policies aimed at addressing similar issues in the country.