Nigeria: Sachet Alcohol 'Became Uncontrollable', Encourages Banditry - NAFDAC

What the report says

NAFDAC says the widespread sale and use of alcohol in sachets and very small bottles has become a serious public health and social concern in Nigeria, with the regulator linking harmful drinking habits to broader insecurity, including banditry. The remarks were made by NAFDAC Director-General Mojisola Adeyeye during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, as reported by Vanguard and distributed by AllAfrica.

Adeyeye said alcohol can damage major organs such as the brain, kidneys and liver, and argued that sachet alcohol, once approved decades ago, later became difficult to regulate. She said NAFDAC has taken enforcement steps in recent months, including banning sachet alcohol below 200ml, shutting down three major companies for a short period and detaining some individuals, according to the report. She also said manufacturers had signed undertakings not to produce alcohol in sachets or bottles under 200ml.

The agency’s position has drawn pushback from some manufacturers and other critics, but Adeyeye framed the restrictions as a measure to protect young people and the future workforce. The report also notes that the Ministry of Health’s national alcohol policy includes limits on sachet and PET-bottle alcohol under 200ml. In a broader sense, Nigeria has long struggled with alcohol regulation, youth access and enforcement challenges, making the ban part of a wider debate over public health, trade and compliance.