The Federal Government has directed the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control to suspend all enforcement actions linked to the proposed ban on sachet alcohol and 200ml PET bottle alcoholic drinks.
The government also warned the agency to immediately stop sealing factories and warehouses over the matter.
The directive was issued in a statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation following concerns raised alongside the Office of the National Security Adviser.
Officials said continued enforcement without a fully implemented National Alcohol Policy could pose security and economic risks.
The government stated that all actions related to the ban must be put on hold pending further consultations and a final directive.
Although the National Alcohol Policy has been signed by the Federal Ministry of Health, authorities said enforcement should not continue until proper implementation guidelines are in place.
The statement noted that shutting down factories and sealing warehouses had already begun to disrupt jobs, supply chains and informal distribution networks.
It added that the situation was creating avoidable tension with possible security implications across communities.
The position reinforces an earlier directive issued in December 2025 suspending actions connected to the proposed ban.
The government also referenced concerns earlier raised by a committee of the House of Representatives over the enforcement plans.
According to officials, legislative resolutions, public health concerns, economic impacts and national interest are all being reviewed before a final decision is taken.
Authorities said the involvement of the National Security Adviser shows the matter has gone beyond regulation to broader national concerns.
The government assured stakeholders that a final position will be announced after proper inter-agency consultations.