Distillers protest against NAFDAC’s sachet alcohol ban

…members losing livelihoods

Members of the National Union of Food Beverage and Tobacco Employees (NUFBTE) took to the streets of Lagos yesterday, protesting against the National Agency for Food Drug and Control’s (NAFDAC) recent ban on cheap alcoholic beverages in sachets.

The ban, which came into effect on February 1st, 2024, has shut down production lines and sparked concerns about job losses in the industry. The ban follows a five-year phase-out notice issued in 2019 and a multi-agency agreement in 2018.

NAFDAC has emphasised it adhered to the timeline and did not renew licenses for the banned products after January 2024.

Read also: Union protest at NAFDAC office over sachet alcohol ban

However, the union, representing workers in the food and beverage sector, fears the ban will cost thousands of jobs. “Most of our jobs, our means of livelihood are at stake,” said Olamide Somefun, vice chairman of the union’s Ota branch.

He highlighted the potential impact on employment within the industry, stating that “many companies will fold up, especially those local industries that serve as raw materials to the producers.”

While acknowledging the public health concerns, the union urged NAFDAC to consider the economic impact. “We are not saying don’t regulate,” said Idogen Emmanuel, the union’s Lagos deputy chairman.

“But do it with concern for humanity.” He proposed postponing the ban until the economy improves and affected workers can find alternative jobs.”

Responding, Amuda Kayode, NAFDAC director of drug evaluation and research assured the union that the agency encourages businesses and doesn’t aim to shut them down.

He emphasised the focus on protecting public health, particularly young people, but clarified that the ban only applies to alcoholic beverages, not other products like water or biscuits.

While accepting the health concerns, the union vice chairman stressed the importance of responsible consumption and age restrictions.

He pledged to raise awareness through media channels and encourage members to follow existing regulations.