The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sealed three factories involved in the production of banned sachet alcoholic drinks. The enforcement action, carried out on July 28, 2026, targeted facilities in Lagos, Ogun, and Kaduna states, resulting in the seizure of more than 500,000 units of the illicit products.
Background of the Sachet Alcohol Ban
NAFDAC had previously outlawed the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and small-volume PET bottles due to health concerns, especially among young people. The ban, which took effect in 2024, was part of efforts to curb alcohol abuse and reduce underage drinking. Despite the prohibition, some manufacturers continued clandestine operations.
Raid Details and Seizures
According to a statement released by NAFDAC's Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, the agency's enforcement team acted on intelligence reports. “We received credible information about the illegal production of these banned drinks. Our officers conducted simultaneous raids on the three factories, where we found large quantities of the prohibited sachet alcohol,” Adeyeye said. The factories were operating under the guise of producing non-alcoholic beverages, but hidden sections were dedicated to the banned products.
The seized items include various brands of gin, brandy, and other spirits packaged in 20cl and 30cl sachets. NAFDAC estimates the street value of the confiscated goods at approximately ₦50 million. The affected factories have been shut down pending further investigations.
Legal Consequences and Health Warnings
NAFDAC warned that the owners of the sealed factories would face prosecution under the agency's enabling act. The penalty for violating the ban includes fines and possible imprisonment. Adeyeye reiterated the health risks associated with sachet alcohol, stating that “the packaging encourages excessive consumption and is a major contributor to liver disease, road accidents, and social vices among young people.”
Industry Reaction and Compliance
The Association of Food, Beverage, and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE) expressed support for NAFDAC's enforcement actions. AFBTE Chairman, Dr. Olusegun Odusanya, noted that “responsible manufacturers have complied with the ban. We commend NAFDAC for clamping down on rogue producers who tarnish the industry's reputation.”
Meanwhile, consumer advocacy groups have called for stricter penalties to deter future violations. They also urged the public to report any suspicious production of sachet alcohol to NAFDAC.
Conclusion
NAFDAC's latest operation underscores its commitment to enforcing public health regulations. The agency pledges to continue monitoring and raiding illegal production sites. Manufacturers are advised to adhere to the ban to avoid severe legal repercussions.
