Nigeria's Alcohol Sachet Ban Sparks Labor Protests

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Nigeria is set to enforce a ban on the sale of sachet alcohol, effective January 1, 2026. This decision follows a memorandum signed in January 2019 aimed at regulating alcohol packaging.

Protests led by the Nigerian Chang Movement, represented by Comrade Kelvin Akerel, have emerged, arguing that the ban threatens the livelihoods of approximately 5.5 million workers in the food and beverage sector. NAFDAC's Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, stated that the ban is a public health measure aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm, particularly among vulnerable populations.

The enforcement has been met with resistance from labor unions, who warn that the crackdown could lead to significant job losses and disrupt legitimate business operations. The unions are advocating for a balanced approach that considers both health objectives and economic realities, urging for a delay in enforcement until the industry can adapt.