NLC, Distillers Protest Sachet Drinks Ban, Accuse NAFDAC of Working Against Local Manufacturers

Members of the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN), alongside organised labour unions, on Friday staged a protest against the ban on sachet alcoholic drinks, accusing the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) of policies that threaten local manufacturing and jobs.

The protest, which took place at the NAFDAC Lagos office, was led by DIBAN and supported by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and workers from various distilling and blending companies.

The protesters carried placards condemning the ban, warning that the policy could lead to massive job losses, factory shutdowns and economic hardship for thousands of Nigerians who depend on the industry for their livelihood.

Speaking during the protest, representatives of DIBAN described the sachet alcohol ban as “anti-industry” and “anti-workers,” arguing that local manufacturers were not adequately consulted before the policy was implemented.

Labour leaders also criticised NAFDAC for what they described as a lack of engagement with stakeholders, insisting that the ban would negatively impact workers across the value chain, including distributors, transporters and retailers.

According to the unions, while they support regulation and responsible consumption, outright prohibition without alternative measures would worsen unemployment and deepen economic challenges, especially amid the current economic climate.

The protesters called on the Federal Government and NAFDAC to suspend the ban and reopen dialogue with industry stakeholders to explore more balanced regulatory solutions.

NAFDAC, however, has maintained that the ban is aimed at protecting public health, particularly among young people, insisting that the policy remains in force until reviewed by appropriate authorities.