By Mercy Gadia Adi
The Federal Government has reopened consultations on the contentious ban on sachet alcoholic beverages and 200ml PET bottle spirits, signaling a possible shift ahead of the December 2025 enforcement deadline.
In a formal letter dated December 1, 2025, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) wrote to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, seeking clarification on the ministry’s position before government takes a final stand. The correspondence, signed by the Permanent Secretary (General Services), M.S. Danjuma, was dispatched in response to fresh concerns raised by the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control.
The committee, in a letter referenced NASS/10/HR/CT.53/77 and dated November 13, 2025, drew attention to what it described as the non-implementation of a House resolution passed in March 2024. The resolution followed an investigative hearing into NAFDAC’s decision to ban the sale and distribution of sachet alcohol and small-volume PET spirits. Lawmakers had advised the suspension of the ban, citing unresolved stakeholder concerns and the need for deeper consultations.
Despite the directive, the House now alleges that NAFDAC has continued preparations toward enforcement, prompting renewed legislative pressure on the executive.
The latest communication, signed by Deputy Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, urged the Health Ministry to exercise its “good offices” to ensure full adherence to the 2024 resolution.
While awaiting the ministry’s formal response, the SGF has stressed the need for an informed, unified government position before a definitive decision is taken on whether the planned December 2025 enforcement will proceed or be suspended.