WORKERS SOUND ALARM ON JOB LOSSES, URGE TALKS OVER SACHET ALCOHOL BAN
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By: Fasasi Hammad
The Executive Secretary of the Food, Beverages and Tobacco Senior Staff Association (FBTSSA), Solomon Adebosin, has called on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to engage stakeholders in dialogue over the recent ban on alcohol sold in sachets and PET bottles under 200ml.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Adebosin warned that the ban, enforced by NAFDAC from January 21, 2026, could have unintended consequences on local businesses and employment.
The regulatory agency had initially announced the ban on November 11, 2025, with plans to enforce it by December 2025 following a Senate directive. Enforcement was briefly suspended after the Federal Government called for further consultations. However, NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye confirmed that the agency has now received a renewed order from the Senate to proceed.
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Prof. Adeyeye explained that the measure is aimed at safeguarding public health and protecting vulnerable populations, especially children, adolescents, and young adults, from harmful alcohol consumption.
Adebosin, however, argued that sachet alcohol offers moderation and affordability. “The idea of products coming in sachets is a response to the current state of Nigeria’s economy,” he said. “It allows people to purchase smaller, affordable quantities and encourages responsible consumption. One sachet is enough to enjoy the product without overindulging.”
He also highlighted the potential impact on local manufacturers and jobs. “Indigenous entrepreneurs invest significant resources to set up these businesses, providing employment for Nigerians directly and indirectly. Shutting them down will have serious economic consequences,” he said.
Adebosin further cautioned that the ban could discourage foreign investment. “When foreign investors see how local businesses are being treated, it may deter them from investing in Nigeria,” he noted.
He urged NAFDAC to consider alternatives and engage stakeholders in discussions. “A ban should not be the first response. We need dialogue to explore solutions that balance public health concerns with economic realities,” Adebosin said.
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