The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has publicly refuted recent media reports suggesting that the Federal Government of Nigeria directed the agency to suspend enforcement actions concerning the regulation of sachet alcohol and 200ml PET bottle alcoholic beverages. This denial came after a statement from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, which claimed that a government directive had been issued to halt such regulatory measures. NAFDAC emphasized that it has not received any official communication regarding this supposed directive and remains committed to fulfilling its statutory responsibilities.

NAFDAC's Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, reiterated the agency's dedication to maintaining health and safety standards in Nigeria, suggesting that enforcement actions against sachet alcohol are crucial for public health. The agency's position underscores its mandate to regulate substances that may pose risks to consumers, particularly younger populations who might be more susceptible to the harms associated with inexpensive alcoholic products. By insisting on the continuation of regulations, NAFDAC aims to prevent any potential public health crises stemming from unregulated alcohol consumption.

The rebuttal from NAFDAC is significant given the ongoing discourse about alcohol regulation in Nigeria, particularly around sachet alcohol, which is widely consumed and often criticized for its detrimental effects. This clarification is a reminder of the complexities in managing public health policies and the role of government agencies in enforcing regulations that protect consumers. The agency's firm stance against any perceived governmental interference reinforces the importance of independent regulatory practices in the country.