Nigeria launches 2026–2030 alcohol policy as NAFDAC orders recall of banned pack sizes
The new framework combines alcohol harm reduction with tougher regulatory enforcement, including recalls, product destruction and sanctions for manufacturers and sellers of prohibited beverages.
NIGERIA – The Federal Government has adopted a four-year national alcohol policy aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm, curbing abuse and protecting underage and vulnerable populations, as NAFDAC orders a nationwide recall and destruction of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and plastic bottles below 200ml.
The Nigeria Alcohol Policy and its Multisectoral Implementation Plan (2026–2030), launched by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, establishes a coordinated framework for alcohol control, focusing on prevention, treatment and rehabilitation, effective regulation and responsible economic development.
Speaking at the launch, NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye commended the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for providing clear policy direction on alcohol control.
The policy launch comes as NAFDAC intensifies enforcement of the Federal Government’s ban on the production and distribution of alcoholic beverages in sachets and plastic bottles below 200ml.
At a press briefing at the agency’s office in Isolo, Lagos, Adeyeye warned manufacturers whose prohibited products are found in the market that they face heavy fines and possible permanent closure of their manufacturing facilities.
She said enforcement would be conducted in phases, beginning with manufacturers and subsequently extending to markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars and distribution centres.
Adeyeye disclosed that the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria, the Association of Food, Beverage and Tobacco Employers and their member companies had signed an irrevocable enforcement undertaking committing them to discontinue production and distribution of alcoholic beverages in the prohibited pack sizes.
Under the undertaking, affected manufacturers are required to begin nationwide recalls of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and plastic bottles below 200ml from distributors, warehouses and other points across the supply chain.
Manufacturers must also submit periodic compliance reports to NAFDAC, while recalled products will undergo inventory verification and destruction under the agency’s supervision. The manufacturers will bear the costs of the recall and destruction.
Adeyeye warned that companies that fail to comply with the undertaking risk continued closure of their facilities, placement on regulatory watch lists, suspension or revocation of product registrations, prosecution where applicable and other sanctions permitted by law.
The agency also warned retailers and roadside sellers against selling the banned products. Adeyeye said enforcement would continue through seizures, intelligence gathering and collaboration with other government agencies.
NAFDAC said the enforcement measures form part of broader efforts to implement the government’s alcohol control framework and ensure compliance with restrictions on prohibited packaging.
The agency urged manufacturers, distributors and retailers to comply with the requirements, while the new national policy provides the framework for coordinated action on alcohol-related harm, regulation and rehabilitation.
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