SGF Seeks Explanation from Health Minister Over Ban on Sachet Alcohol

The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation has requested a formal explanation from the Federal Ministry of Health regarding the planned December 31 enforcement of the ban on sachet alcoholic drinks and small PET bottle spirits by NAFDAC.

The request came after renewed pressure from the National Assembly, which has repeatedly accused NAFDAC of moving ahead with the ban despite earlier legislative resolutions calling for a suspension.

The demand for clarification was contained in a December 1 letter signed by the Permanent Secretary (General Services), Mohammed Danjuma, and addressed to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, as well as the NAFDAC Director-General.

Danjuma, writing on behalf of the SGF, Senator George Akume, referenced concerns raised by the House Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control, which noted that resolutions issued since 2024 had not been implemented. The committee’s letter dated November 13, 2025, triggered the call for an updated government stance.

The Senate had earlier approved a December 31, 2025 deadline for the phase-out after a motion by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who argued that the timeline aligned with global standards and was meant to reduce alcohol-related harm. He recalled that in 2018, the Health Ministry, FCCPC, NAFDAC and industry stakeholders signed a five-year agreement to discontinue sachet and mini-bottle alcohol due to rising youth addiction linked to low-cost, high-strength liquor.

Manufacturers were granted an additional one-year moratorium in 2024 to clear existing stock, but some producers are now pushing for another extension.

The House of Representatives had previously advised a suspension of the ban, citing unresolved stakeholder concerns. In its latest message, the House Committee insisted NAFDAC had not complied with the 2024 resolution and urged the Health Ministry to act accordingly.

As the government awaits the ministry’s feedback, the SGF stressed the need for a “clear and informed position” before determining whether to proceed with or halt the December 2025 enforcement.

With both the SGF and the National Assembly involved, the debate over the sachet alcohol ban is set to intensify as the deadline approaches.