By Adesakin Adefemi
The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) has directed the suspension of all enforcement actions related to the proposed ban on sachet alcohol products, pending further review. This decision, announced on Monday, December 15, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the industry and raised questions about the government’s commitment to addressing the scourge of alcohol abuse in Nigeria.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Terrence Kuanum, the OSGF is considering the matter in line with its statutory coordinating role as Chairman of the Cabinet Secretariat. The correspondence, dated November 13, 2025, and signed by Deputy Chairman of the Committee, Uchenna Okonkwo, is currently under review, highlighting the government’s cautious approach to policymaking.
The OSGF has directed that all actions, decisions, or enforcement measures relating to the proposed sachet alcohol ban be suspended, pending the conclusion of consultations and the issuance of a final directive. Any enforcement action taken by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) or other agencies without due clearance will be considered invalid and disregarded by the public, underscoring the need for coordination and collaboration in regulatory enforcement.
The proposed ban was initially announced by NAFDAC, citing concerns over the misuse of cheap alcoholic drinks among youths and drivers. The agency’s Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, stated that the decision aimed to address these concerns, which have been linked to increased cases of road accidents, health problems, and social vices.
However, the National Assembly has repeatedly asked NAFDAC to suspend the enforcement of the ban, citing legislative resolutions passed since 2024. The Senate had earlier approved a December 31, 2025, phase-out deadline, highlighting the complexities and competing interests involved in policymaking.
The OSGF assured Nigerians that all relevant legislative resolutions, economic implications, public health concerns, and broader national interest considerations are being carefully examined to ensure a balanced and lawful outcome. The public will be informed once a final position is reached, providing clarity on the way forward.
The suspension of the ban has sparked debate, with stakeholders awaiting the outcome of the review. Industry players have expressed concerns about the potential impact on jobs and the economy, while civil society groups have welcomed the move as a step towards addressing the country’s alcohol abuse problem.
The OSGF’s directive underscores the government’s commitment to careful consideration and consultation in policymaking, highlighting the need for evidence-based decision-making in addressing complex social issues.
As the review process unfolds, Nigerians are watching closely, eager to see how the government will balance competing interests and prioritize the nation’s health and well-being. The outcome of this review will have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s public health landscape and the future of the sachet alcohol industry.
