The Food, Beverage, and Tobacco Senior Staff Association (FBTSS) and the National Union of Food, Beverages, and Tobacco Employees (NUFBTE) have raised concerns about the potential loss of over 500,000 jobs due to the prohibition of alcohol sales and consumption in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles. The organizations conveyed their worries during a protest held at the Lagos office of the National Agency for Foods and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
In their plea to the Federal Government, the protesters emphasized the adverse economic effects of the proposed ban. They urged the authorities to reconsider their position to safeguard the livelihoods of half a million Nigerians. They underscored the potential consequences of this decision, warning that it could lead to a significant influx of unemployed individuals into an already saturated Nigerian labor market.
The associations contended that the new policy might exacerbate challenges for the Nigerian economy, potentially resulting in the closure of industries responsible for producing these alcohol products. Emmanuel Idogien, Vice Chairman of NUFBTE, Lagos Council, voiced the collective concern, stating, “Most of our jobs are at stake. Many companies will fold up, especially those local industries that serve as raw materials to the producers.”
In defense of their position, the associations’ representatives highlighted their employers’ commitment to legal compliance and social responsibility. They pointed out that these companies have consistently paid substantial taxes, contributing significantly to the overall economic growth. Additionally, the groups have engaged in advocacy initiatives to educate the public about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption and underage drinking.
During the protest, they pleaded with NAFDAC and the Federal Government to reconsider banning these products. Instead, they proposed implementing effective regulations and public enlightenment campaigns to address the concerns raised by the authorities. The unions stressed the need for a more nuanced approach, expressing fear that the outright ban could inadvertently lead to an increase in counterfeit products and illegal alcohol production, resulting in various health problems.
The unions emphasized the importance of finding a balanced solution that addresses public health concerns while preserving jobs and sustaining the economic contributions of the affected industries. They called for collaboration between the government, regulatory agencies, and industry stakeholders to formulate policies that achieve both health and economic objectives without compromising the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers.
