The Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA) has publicly praised the Federal Government's decision to halt enforcement of a proposed ban on sachet alcohol and 200ml PET bottle products. This move, directed by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), comes as a significant relief to the beverage industry.
Government Halts Enforcement Pending Final Directive
In a statement issued on 18 December 2025, the Director-General of NECA, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, commended the directive for an immediate suspension of all related enforcement actions. This suspension is to remain in place until consultations are concluded and a final policy is issued. The decision followed concerns raised by the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control.
Oyerinde emphasized that this step respects existing National Assembly resolutions and restores much-needed regulatory clarity for businesses. He also welcomed a crucial clarification from the OSGF stating that any enforcement action taken by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) or other agencies without proper clearance is invalid and should be disregarded by the public.
Economic Stakes: Jobs and Massive Investments at Risk
The NECA Director-General outlined the severe economic implications of the initially proposed ban. He revealed that the sachet and PET segment represents a substantial part of the estimated N800 billion invested in Nigeria's alcoholic beverage sector. This segment is a critical employment driver, supporting thousands of direct and indirect jobs across various value chains.
The key employment areas impacted include:
- Manufacturing and production
- Packaging and materials supply
- Logistics and distribution networks
- Wholesale and retail operations
Oyerinde argued that in an economy grappling with high unemployment and increasing operational costs, abrupt policy measures that threaten legitimate investments and existing jobs are counterproductive. He stressed the need for balanced solutions that do not exacerbate economic hardships.
Call for Evidence-Based Solutions and Deeper Consultation
While acknowledging the public health concerns behind the proposed policy, particularly regarding underage access, Oyerinde called for a more nuanced approach. He insisted that solutions must be evidence-based and carefully designed to avoid unintended consequences.
"We fully acknowledge the need to address public health concerns, especially regarding children and young people," Oyerinde stated. "But the solutions must be evidence-based and carefully designed so as not to drive activities into the informal and unregulated economy or encourage illicit products."
He expressed NECA's commitment to a collaborative process, stating, "We are looking forward to a deepened consultation to enable the protection of jobs, livelihoods and legitimate investments, while also ensuring that public health objectives are effectively and sustainably achieved." This position highlights the association's push for policies that safeguard both economic stability and public health without sacrificing one for the other.
