​SGF Halts Immediate Implementation of Sachet Alcohol Ban Pending Final Decision

Sachet Alcohol

The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) has ordered a temporary stop to all enforcement of the proposed ban on alcoholic drinks sold in sachets.

This decision comes after an official letter was received from the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control regarding the planned restrictions.

In a statement released on Monday, the OSGF, via its Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Terrence Kuanum, confirmed that the letter, dated November 13, 2025, and signed by Deputy Chairman Uchenna Okonkwo, is currently being reviewed. The Office stressed that it is considering the issue in its official capacity as the head of the Cabinet Secretariat.

The statement made it clear that any action taken by NAFDAC or other agencies on the ban without the SGF's prior agreement is invalid and the public should ignore it until a final instruction is given. Nigerians have been assured that all factors—including Parliament’s decisions, the impact on the economy, public health worries, and the wider national interest—are being carefully looked at.

NAFDAC had previously announced that the production and sale of alcoholic drinks in sachets and bottles smaller than 200 millilitres would be banned by December 2025. This was due to concerns over young people and drivers misusing cheap alcoholic drinks. However, the National Assembly has repeatedly asked for the ban to be put on hold for further review.

A letter dated December 1 from the SGF’s Permanent Secretary, Mohammed Danjuma, was sent to the Coordinating Minister of Health, Professor Muhammad Pate, and the NAFDAC Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye. It asked for their comments to help the SGF reach an informed decision. The public will be officially informed once the SGF decides on a final position.