Sachet Drink Ban Sparks Protests: Distillers Urge NAFDAC to Assess Economic Impact

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Protests Against Alcoholic Beverage Ban in Nigeria

On a Friday morning, the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN) led a coalition of stakeholders, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and workers from various companies, to the Lagos office of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The group gathered to protest the recent ban on the manufacture and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets. This move has sparked significant concern among industry players and workers who fear the economic repercussions of the decision.

The protesters arrived at the agency’s office as early as 8:30 am, carrying placards with messages that highlighted their grievances. Some of the signs read: “Local manufacturers deserve protection, not frustration,” “Stop destroying local manufacturers,” “N2 trillion investment deserves protection,” “5.5 million Nigerians cannot be pushed to the streets,” and “The Renewed Hope Agenda must work for all Nigerians.”

Comrade Solomon Adebosin, the Executive Secretary of the Food, Beverage and Tobacco Senior Staff Association, a union under TUC, addressed the media during the protest. He explained that the demonstration was a direct response to NAFDAC's decision to enforce the ban on the production and sale of alcohol in sachets and PET bottles below 200ml. Despite a directive from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to suspend all actions related to the proposed ban until further consultations were completed, NAFDAC proceeded with enforcement.

According to Adebosin, the ban could have severe consequences for the Nigerian economy. He warned that it would not only result in the loss of over five million jobs but also put more than three trillion naira in investments at risk. He emphasized that such a move would be detrimental to the country’s economic stability, especially during a time when efforts are being made to strengthen the economy.

Adebosin pointed out that the policy targeting sachet drinks appears to be aimed specifically at indigenous producers, who are the most affected by this decision. He argued that the ban is designed to push local manufacturers out of the market, which would have widespread negative effects on the economy. He stressed that all individuals involved in the production and sales value chain would be impacted.

To address these concerns, Adebosin called for proper regulation through access control and advocacy, which he described as a globally accepted sustainable approach. He urged NAFDAC to follow global trends by deepening its regulations rather than pursuing an unpopular route that could create economic chaos for Nigerians.

Comrade Azeez Rasaki, speaking on behalf of the National Union of Food/Beverages & Tobacco Employees, echoed similar sentiments. He stated that the actions taken by NAFDAC undermine the economic recovery objectives of the Tinubu administration and contradict the Renewed Hope Agenda, which promises job creation, industrial growth, and support for local enterprises.

The protests highlight the growing tension between regulatory agencies and industry stakeholders. As the debate continues, the focus remains on finding a balanced approach that protects both public health and the interests of local businesses. The outcome of this conflict will have far-reaching implications for the Nigerian economy and its workforce.