Brand Owners Reinforce Opposition Against NAFDAC’s Ban On Sachet Alcohol, Calls For Collaborative Approach
Brand owners under the umbrella of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) have reinforced the opposition against the recent ban imposed on sachets alcoholic drinks and PET bottles less then 200ml by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir made the reinforcement earlier today in an interview with the Arise News.
Recall that in a press conference held earlier in Lagos, he had stressed that contrary to NAFDAC’s assertion, the decision to implement the ban was not a collective one.
Ajayi-Kadir said, “NAFDAC’s claim of a collective decision is unfounded, the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria, a sub-sector under MAN, had expressed reservations over the planned ban.”
According to him, despite initial objections, the association participated in the preparation of a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at addressing concerns raised.
However, he underscored the lack of adequate consideration given to the ban’s impact on manufacturers, workers, citizens, and the economy.
He asserted that, “The ban overlooks the potential economic repercussions and disregards the principle of responsible consumption. Bigger sizes encourage excessive drinking, while smaller portions promote moderation.”
Ajayi-Kadir called on NAFDAC to reconsider its approach and instead focus on collaborative efforts to address issues of underage drinking and irresponsible consumption.
He emphasised the need to tighten regulations and access control rather than an outright ban on certain product sizes.
Meanwhile, amidst growing discontent, members of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) staged protests in Ikeja, Lagos State, against the ban on sachet alcoholic drinks. Protesters highlighted the adverse effects of the ban on their livelihoods, brandishing placards to express their grievances.
In response to the mounting pressure, NAFDAC faces calls to reevaluate its strategy and engage stakeholders in a dialogue aimed at achieving a balanced approach to alcohol regulation.
