Nigeria's Senate Tightens Grip on High-Strength Alcoholic Beverages in Sachets In a move aimed at protecting public health, the Nigerian Senate has directed the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to enforce the ban on high-strength alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets by December 2025. The decision comes as a warning to manufacturers, stating that no further extensions will be entertained. The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong, who called for an immediate end to the delay in phasing out sachet-packaged alcohol across the country. Senator Ekpeyong highlighted that the ban originated from a 2018 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among key stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), NAFDAC, and industry associations. The MoU established a five-year phase-out period to curb the rising consumption of cheap, high-strength alcohol among minors, commercial drivers, and other vulnerable groups. Although the initial deadline had expired, the Federal Government granted a one-year extension in 2024, which is set to expire in December 2025. Senator Ekpeyong expressed concern that some manufacturers were lobbying for yet another extension, describing it as an attempt to undermine regulatory authority and jeopardize public health. "Continued production of high-strength alcohol in sachets contributes to youth addiction, road accidents, school dropouts, domestic violence, and other social vices," Senator Ekpeyong warned. The Senate, therefore, mandated NAFDAC to fully implement the ban without compromise and urged the Federal Ministry of Health to remove any administrative or legal barriers hindering enforcement. Lawmakers also called for the expedited release of the National Alcohol Policy, which should formally outlaw sachet packaging of high-strength alcoholic beverages and promote nationwide public awareness campaigns to discourage underage and excessive drinking. By enforcing the ban, the Senate aims to protect the nation's most vulnerable citizens and promote a healthier environment for all.