By Omeiza Ajayi
ABUJA: The Federal Authorities has ordered to the Nationwide Company for Meals and Drug Administration and Management NAFDAC, ordering a right away cessation of all enforcement actions concerning the ban on sachet alcohol and 200ml PET bottle merchandise.
The directive, a joint intervention by the Workplace of the Secretary to the Authorities of the Federation OSGF and the Workplace of the Nationwide Safety Adviser ONSA, cited grave considerations over financial stability and potential safety threats.
Each workplaces warned that continued enforcement, within the absence of a totally carried out Nationwide Alcohol Coverage, might “destabilize communities, worsen unemployment, and set off avoidable safety challenges.”
In a press release launched by Terrence Kuanum, Particular Adviser on Public Affairs to the SGF, the federal government clarified that whereas the Nationwide Alcohol Coverage has been signed by the Federal Ministry of Well being below the route of President Bola Tinubu, NAFDAC should chorus from sealing factories or warehouses till the coverage is totally operationalized.
The SGF and NSA emphasised that the present “de facto banning” of those merchandise and not using a harmonized framework is creating important disruptions.
“The continued sealing of warehouses and de facto banning of sachet alcohol merchandise… is already creating financial disruptions and poses a rising safety menace, significantly given the influence on employment, provide chains, and casual distribution networks throughout the nation,” the assertion warned.
The OSGF additional revealed that its choice was influenced by correspondence from the Home of Representatives Committee on Meals and Medication Administration and Management, dated November 13, 2025.
The letter, signed by Deputy Chairman Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, highlighted current Nationwide Meeting resolutions that cautioned in opposition to the proposed ban.
Reaffirming a earlier suspension issued in December 2025, the OSGF acknowledged its function in reviewing legislative, public well being, and financial elements earlier than a remaining choice is reached.
“Accordingly, all actions, choices, or enforcement measures regarding the continued ban on sachet alcohol are to be suspended pending the ultimate consultations and implementation of the Nationwide Alcohol Coverage and the issuance of a remaining directive,” the assertion emphasised.
The Federal Authorities additionally took the step of declaring any unauthorized actions by NAFDAC as “invalid,” urging the general public and trade stakeholders to ignore any enforcement measures not cleared by the OSGF.
The assertion assured Nigerians {that a} “remaining, balanced, and lawful choice” can be communicated sooner or later, prioritizing public well being alongside nationwide safety and financial stability.
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