Manufacturers Clash with NAFDAC Over Ban on Sale of Alcoholic Drinks in Sachets

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has engaged in a heated dispute with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) over the ban on the sale of alcoholic drinks packaged in sachets.

NAFDAC’s decision to prohibit the sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles has sparked intense backlash from manufacturers and industry stakeholders.

MAN, represented by its Director General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, vehemently opposed NAFDAC’s rationale behind the ban.

Ajayi-Kadir emphasized that NAFDAC’s claims regarding the link between sachet packaging and underage alcohol consumption lacked substantial evidence.

MAN contended that the ban reflects broader systemic issues rather than addressing the root cause of irresponsible alcohol use.

The ban, announced by NAFDAC on February 5, 2024, purportedly aims to curb the rising trend of alcohol consumption among minors.

However, MAN pointed out that NAFDAC failed to conduct a scientific study to validate its claims before implementing the ban.

Moreover, MAN highlighted concerns about the potential consequences of the ban, including the proliferation of counterfeit products and its adverse impact on the local economy.

In response to NAFDAC’s directive, labour and trade unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress, staged protests at the Lagos State House of Assembly.

The unions expressed solidarity with the manufacturers and urged NAFDAC to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the significant investments made by companies in the industry.

The clash between manufacturers and NAFDAC underscores the complexity of regulatory decisions impacting the alcoholic beverage industry in Nigeria.

As tensions escalate, stakeholders await further developments and potential resolutions to address the contentious ban.