Distillers protest sachet alcohol ban over job loss fears
Members of the distillers’ association have raised concerns about the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control’s enforcement of a ban on sachet alcohol. The unions argue that this move could threaten millions of jobs across Nigeria. Solomon Adebosin and Azeez Razaq criticized the policy, saying it undermines local investment and the government’s economic agenda. They called for urgent intervention from the Presidency to protect jobs and the interests of indigenous manufacturers.
What we know
- The distillers’ unions warned that NAFDAC’s enforcement could displace over 5.5 million Nigerians from their jobs.
- NAFDAC announced plans to enforce a total ban on sachet alcohol and PET bottles below 200ml, in line with a Senate directive.
- The Federal Government had previously ordered a suspension of the ban pending further consultations.
- Solomon Adebosin stated that the policy undermines the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
- Union leaders urged the Presidency to intervene and ensure regulatory agencies align with government policy and protect local industries.
