NAFDAC Faces Backlash Over Alcohol Ban

NAFDAC Faces Backlash Over Alcohol Ban

Labour groups in Nigeria have accused the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) of targeting local alcohol producers with its new ban on sachet-packaged alcoholic drinks.

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) claims the policy is part of a “sinister agenda” aimed at undermining indigenous-owned firms that produce wines and spirits.

The accusation came during a protest at NAFDAC’s offices, where Comrade Solomon Adebosin, Executive Secretary of the Food, Beverage and Tobacco Senior Staff Association, warned that enforcing the ban could trigger widespread job losses and threaten the survival of domestic manufacturing companies.

Adebosin questioned why NAFDAC pressed ahead despite a directive from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to pause the policy for review, citing its potential economic impact.

He recalled that organised labour had previously cautioned that over five million jobs and more than ₦3 trillion in investments could be at risk.

The union suggested that globally recognised alternatives, including regulation, controlled access, and public awareness campaigns, are more effective in addressing alcohol-related concerns than an outright prohibition.

Comrade Azeez Rasaki of the National Union of Food, Beverage and Tobacco Employees added that the ban contradicts the federal government’s economic recovery goals, which include job creation, industrial growth, and support for local businesses.

The unions called for an immediate suspension of the ban and urged broad consultation with stakeholders to develop a more balanced regulatory framework that protects jobs and economic activity.

NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, stated that the ban was implemented following a Senate directive requiring enforcement without further delays, despite opposition from unions and civil society.