The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria ,MAN, has expressed strong opposition to the proposed ban on sachet products, particularly sachet drinks, across the country.
Francis Meshioye, the President of MAN, criticized the move, emphasizing that such a ban would lead to job losses in the manufacturing industry.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Meshioye underscored the importance of consulting stakeholders before making decisions that could significantly impact the manufacturing sector. He called for a collaborative approach, urging the government to engage with manufacturers to understand the potential consequences of such a ban.
Meshioye stated, “The government should not just wake up and do things. They should call for stakeholder meetings and declare the intention of doing things and explain why it should be done. They should ask for our opinion.”
Expressing concern about the potential economic repercussions, Meshioye emphasized the need for innovative solutions that create jobs rather than exacerbating unemployment. He urged the government to reconsider its approach and explore alternatives that balance regulatory goals with the preservation of employment opportunities.
The proposed ban on sachet products, including alcoholic beverages, was announced by the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control ,NAFDAC. The Director-General of NAFDAC, Mojisola Adeyeye, cited concerns about substance and alcohol abuse linked to the accessibility of high-concentration alcohol in sachets and small-volume containers.
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In response to the proposed ban, the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria , a sub-sector of MAN, submitted a letter to NAFDAC urging a reconsideration of the plan. DIBAN emphasized the potential economic impact, warning of substantial losses in direct and indirect investments if the ban were implemented.
The appeal by DIBAN highlighted the conglomerate’s membership of over 24 corporate organizations, with a majority being indigenous companies manufacturing wines and spirits. The association argued that a ban on sachet products would have a detrimental effect on businesses, leading to significant layoffs and economic losses.
As the debate on the proposed ban continues, the MAN President’s call for stakeholder engagement and careful consideration of the implications underscores the importance of collaborative decision-making in regulatory matters affecting industries and employment.
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