The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called upon the Federal Government to restrain the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) following the regulator’s renewed enforcement of a ban on alcoholic beverages in sachets and small PET bottles.
In a statement released on Monday in Lagos, the Director-General of MAN, Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir, expressed grave concern over the agency’s actions, which he described as a contradiction of higher government directives and legislative resolutions.
Mr Ajayi-Kadir noted that NAFDAC’s recent enforcement drive appears to bypass a directive from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), issued on 15 December 2025, which explicitly suspended the implementation of the ban.
Furthermore, MAN highlighted that the move disregards a House of Representatives resolution dated 14 March 2024. That resolution, passed following a comprehensive public hearing with industry stakeholders, restrained NAFDAC from proceeding with the prohibition.
“The conflicting directives from various government institutions have created significant confusion within the wines and spirits sector, ultimately disrupting legitimate business operations,” the Director-General stated.
The association defended the production of smaller packaging, asserting that sachet and PET-bottled spirits were introduced to accommodate adult consumers with limited purchasing power. Contrary to NAFDAC’s stance, MAN argued that:
Portion Control: Smaller portions may actually assist in curbing excessive consumption. Hygienic Standards: These products are manufactured under strictly regulated conditions and are duly certified by NAFDAC itself. Risk of Illicit Trade: An outright ban is likely to fuel a surge in unregulated, “moonshine” products, which pose a far greater risk to public health than factory-certified goods.
MAN vigorously dismissed claims that sachet alcohol is a primary driver of underage drinking, citing independent, empirical research that contradicts such assertions. Mr Ajayi-Kadir revealed that the industry has invested over ₦1 billion in nationwide media campaigns to promote responsible consumption and restrict access to minors.
“This investment has been highly impactful in discouraging abuse by underage persons and has significantly deepened the access restriction landscape,” he added.
The Director-General warned that the continued enforcement of the ban threatens thousands of jobs, livelihoods, and vital government tax revenue. Beyond the economic impact, the association cautioned that the vacuum left by local manufacturers would likely be filled by smuggled and substandard alternatives.
MAN reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high regulatory standards but appealed for the Federal Government to compel NAFDAC to halt any actions that destabilise the manufacturing environment.
