NECA, Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association has urged the Federal Government to adopt evidence-based solutions on sachet alcohol regulation. The association warned that poorly designed policies could worsen public health and economic outcomes.
NECA commended the Federal Government for suspending enforcement of the proposed sachet alcohol and 200ml PET bottle ban. According to NECA, the suspension creates room for consultation and regulatory clarity.
NECA Director-General, Adewale Oyerinde, acknowledged concerns about underage drinking and public health risks. However, he stressed that regulation must balance health protection with economic sustainability.
Oyerinde stated that hasty enforcement could push legitimate businesses into the informal economy. Consequently, such actions may increase the circulation of unregulated and illicit alcoholic products.
He welcomed the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation’s clarification on enforcement authority. The clarification invalidated any unapproved enforcement actions by regulatory agencies.
Oyerinde explained that sachet and PET alcohol products represent a major industry segment. He noted that the sector accounts for a large portion of the estimated N800 billion industry investment.
According to him, the segment supports thousands of jobs across manufacturing and distribution value chains. Therefore, sudden policy shifts could trigger widespread job losses nationwide.
He warned that abrupt measures would worsen unemployment amid rising operational costs. In his view, such outcomes would undermine broader economic recovery efforts.
NECA called for deeper stakeholder consultations before issuing a final directive. The association emphasized protecting jobs, investments, and public health simultaneously.
The enforcement suspension followed correspondence from the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drug Administration. The committee questioned the planned enforcement actions by NAFDAC.
The OSGF confirmed that the matter remains under statutory review. It reaffirmed its coordinating role in resolving inter-agency policy issues.
The OSGF directed all agencies to halt enforcement actions immediately. It also advised the public to disregard unapproved enforcement measures.
Finally, the Federal Government assured Nigerians that national interest considerations remain under careful review. A final policy decision will be communicated after consultations conclude.
