AGS NEWS – The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has strongly opposed the ban imposed by the National Agency For Food and Drug Administration (NAFDAC) on the sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles.

According to MAN’s Director-General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, the ban lacks a solid basis and is unacceptable to the association.

Ajayi-Kadir argued that prohibiting sachet and PET alcoholic beverages would hinder adults’ access to affordable drinks.

ALSO READ: Hoodlums attacks NAFDAC officials during enforcement operation in Abuja

NAFDAC initiated the enforcement of the ban on February 1, 2024, targeting alcoholic beverages in sachets, PET, and glass bottles of 200ml and below.

NAFDAC’s rationale behind the ban is to curb underage access to alcohol, citing health risks posed to children.

However, Ajayi-Kadir, speaking at the 2024 Edition of the MAN Reporter of the Year Award/Presidential Media Luncheon, contended that the packaging of alcoholic drinks is not the root cause of irresponsible consumption.

He emphasized that the ban would lead Nigerians to seek alternatives like local alcoholic drinks and would negatively impact government revenue and the economy.

He criticized the ban as unfounded and warned of its potential to worsen the unemployment situation.

ALSO READ: Disagreement arises between NAFDAC and MAN on sachet alcohol ban

Francis Meshioye, the president of MAN, echoed these sentiments, calling for policymakers to consider the economic and social implications of such bans and to involve key stakeholders in decision-making processes.

Meshioye emphasized the need for collaboration between government and the private sector to address challenges in the manufacturing sector, urging the exploration of homegrown policy initiatives to revitalize industries and protect jobs.