NAFDAC Begins Enforcement of Sachet Alcohol Ban, Says Children as Young as 9 Are Drinking

 

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has begun strict nationwide enforcement of the ban on sachet and small-pack alcoholic drinks, describing the move as a crucial step to curb the rising rate of underage drinking in Nigeria.

NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye announced the enforcement during a press conference in Abuja, stating that the operation will be carried out in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

According to Adeyeye, recent studies revealed alarming levels of alcohol consumption among minors, with about 50% of Nigerian children reportedly consuming alcohol—some as young as nine years old.

A 2021 survey conducted across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones showed that:

• 54.3% of minors obtained alcohol themselves

• 49.9% purchased alcohol directly from retailers

• Many children prefer sachet alcohol because it is easy to hide

The study also revealed cases of binge drinking among 11.7% of underage children, with Gombe recording some of the highest binge-drinking cases, while Lagos and Rivers states recorded the highest overall consumption levels.

Adeyeye warned that early exposure to alcohol can cause permanent damage to the brain, especially areas responsible for memory and learning. She added that children who begin drinking early face a 41% higher risk of developing alcohol dependence later in life.

She further noted that underage drinking is often linked to drug abuse, poor academic performance, and social crimes such as banditry and kidnapping.

The NAFDAC boss recalled that alcohol trade groups had previously requested several postponements of the ban, but in November 2025, the Nigerian Senate ordered immediate enforcement and urged the Federal Ministry of Health to introduce a national alcohol control policy, including a ban on sachet alcohol and bottles below 200ml.

Meanwhile, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) warned that manufacturers and retailers who violate the ban will face legal penalties.

The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Onilu, described the policy as a critical public health intervention aimed at protecting Nigerian youths and communities from the dangers of alcohol abuse.