The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called on the Federal Government to reconsider the directive banning the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and small PET bottles, which is set to take effect on December 31, 2025.
In a statement on Wednesday, MAN’s Director-General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, said the ban contradicts previously agreed-upon measures designed by stakeholders to address alcohol misuse responsibly.
The ban, enforced by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), aimed to curb the misuse of inexpensive alcoholic drinks among youths and commercial drivers, according to NAFDAC Director-General Mojisola Adeyeye.
Ajayi-Kadir, however, argued that several independent studies have shown that underage consumption is not widespread.
He noted that the industry has been actively promoting responsible drinking and discouraging underage alcohol use.
“The ban contradicts the position of the House of Representatives and could have serious economic consequences, including potential losses of over N1.9 trillion in investments, and the possible retrenchment of 500,000 direct and 5 million indirect workers,” he said.
He added that the directive would reduce manufacturing capacity utilisation, disrupt local businesses, and undermined indigenous entrepreneurship.
Ajayi-Kadir also highlighted that sachet alcohol is produced under strict hygiene standards and regulated by authorities.
“Banning these products may lead to the growth of illicit and unregulated alcohol, result in revenue losses, and open the market to foreign, often smuggled, brands,” he said.
MAN urged swift approval and implementation of the validated Nigeria National Alcohol Policy and called on the Senate to reverse the ban and prevent NAFDAC from enforcing it from December 31, 2025.
“We remain committed to ensuring our members comply with regulations and continue promoting responsible consumption campaigns,” Ajayi-Kadir said.
