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Manufacturers Urge NAFDAC to Reverse Sachet Alcohol Directive

Phinadon Mag

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Quick Summary:
MANOpposesAlcoholBan as the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria calls on NAFDAC to withdraw its directive banning the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and small PET bottles by December 31, 2025, warning of massive job losses and economic disruption.

Lagos, Nigeria – The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has urged the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to rescind its directive banning the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and small PET bottles by December 31, 2025.

The directive, which followed a Senate resolution reportedly passed on November 6, was described by MAN as counterproductive and inconsistent with earlier stakeholder agreements.

MAN Rejects Senate-Backed Ban

In a statement issued by Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director-General of MAN, the association said the decision contradicts the consensus reached among all stakeholders — including NAFDAC — during the validation of the National Alcohol Policy in October 2025.

Ajayi-Kadir criticised the Senate’s resolution for being made without proper consultation or public hearings with key industry players, unlike the House of Representatives, which had previously engaged stakeholders before making recommendations.

Economic and Social Implications

MAN warned that enforcing the ban could trigger massive economic disruption, including the potential loss of 1.9 trillion in investmentsover 500,000 direct jobs, and approximately five million indirect jobs in marketing, logistics, and supply chains.

Ajayi-Kadir argued that sachet packaging enables low-income adult consumers to purchase regulated alcoholic beverages in smaller, safer quantities — a measure that could actually reduce excessive consumption rather than encourage it.

He also debunked claims that sachet alcohol promotes underage drinking, citing independent government-commissioned studies that found no empirical evidence to support such assertions.

Risks of Illicit Trade and Smuggling

The MAN chief cautioned that the ban could fuel the spread of illicit, unregulated alcohol, as demand would likely shift to underground markets, increasing health and safety risks for consumers.

He further warned that the measure could open Nigeria’s market to smuggled foreign brands, undermining local manufacturers and depriving the government of valuable tax revenue.

Call for Policy Reversal

MAN urged the Senate to withdraw its directive and allow the validated National Alcohol Policy to be implemented as agreed by all stakeholders. The association emphasised that effective regulation and public education, not prohibition, remain the most sustainable solutions to addressing alcohol misuse.

Broader Context

The controversy follows NAFDAC’s earlier announcement that it would begin full enforcement of the sachet alcohol ban in January 2026, citing public health concerns and the need to curb underage drinking.

Industry stakeholders, however, argue that the ban could destabilise the beverage sector, discourage investment, and worsen unemployment at a time when Nigeria’s manufacturing industry is already under pressure from inflation, high energy costs, and foreign exchange challenges.

Entertainment

Burna Boy makes history as the first male artist to reach No. 1 on Spotify’s Global Music Video Chart.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Nigerian superstar Damini Ogulu, famously known as Burna Boy, has once again etched his name in history, this time by becoming the first male artist to claim the coveted #1 spot on Spotify’s newly launched Global Music Video Chart. This monumental achievement comes courtesy of his electrifying World Cup anthem with pop icon Shakira, ‘Dai Dai.’

‘Dai Dai’ has proven to be an unstoppable force, not only conquering the Spotify chart but also making significant waves on the Billboard Hot 100, where it recently soared to a new peak of #13. Industry experts are already predicting a top 10 entry next week, fueled by the highly anticipated World Cup Final Halftime Show performance by Burna Boy and Shakira this coming Sunday.
The song’s dominance extends far beyond these charts. ‘Dai Dai’ remains the most-streamed music video of 2026 on YouTube, boasting an astonishing half a billion views. It has also reached the pinnacle of the Apple Music Global Songs Charts, solidifying its status as a global phenomenon.

Burna Boy’s incredible success with ‘Dai Dai’ has further cemented his position as a titan of the music industry. He has extended his record as the African artist with the most monthly listeners in Spotify’s history, surpassing an astounding 53 million. Not stopping there, he has also set a new benchmark on YouTube Music, becoming the African artist with the most monthly listeners, exceeding 600 million.
These extraordinary achievements are a testament to Burna Boy’s undeniable talent, global appeal, and the ever-growing influence of Afrobeats on the international music scene. He continues to break barriers and inspire millions, proving that music truly knows no boundaries.

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Entertainment

Cardi B Addresses Maduka Okoye Speculation: “I’m Really Hip Hop’s Britney Spears”.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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In the relentless glare of public scrutiny, Grammy-winning artist Cardi B has once again found herself at the center of swirling rumors, this time concerning her burgeoning friendship with Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye. Recent public appearances, including a dinner in Venice, ignited speculation about a potential romance, prompting Cardi B to candidly address the incessant public interest in her personal life.

The rapper, known for her unfiltered honesty, voiced her frustration in a widely circulated video, lamenting the disproportionate attention her activities receive compared to those of her peers. She highlighted a perceived double standard, where ordinary facets of her life become subjects of intense public debate, while similar situations involving other celebrities garner little to no interest.

“No cap, I’m really hip hop’s Britney Spears,” Cardi B declared, drawing a parallel to the pop icon who has famously navigated intense media scrutiny throughout her career. She continued, “I got all the tea on these celebrities. I know who’s with who and what’s doing what. But guess what? Nobody reports about it because nobody cares.”

Her exasperation was palpable as she added, “But when it comes to me, I can’t even do anything without people talking about it. This is crazy. You’ve got to take the good with the bad. It is what it is. People pay for this type of talk.”

Cardi B’s comments arrive amidst a crescendo of speculation surrounding her relationship with Okoye. The pair have been observed together on multiple occasions, notably during Paris Fashion Week and their recent rendezvous in Venice, fueling the ever-present social media buzz. Despite the widespread conjecture, neither Cardi B nor Okoye has publicly confirmed any romantic involvement, leaving the nature of their connection open to continued public interpretation and discussion.

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News

Fabian Ruiz Targets 2026 Ballon d’Or After Incredible Trophy-Laden Season.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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In a sport often dominated by household names, Paris Saint-Germain’s midfield maestro, Fabian Ruiz, has boldly declared his ambition to claim the coveted Ballon d’Or in 2026. The Spain international, fresh off a truly remarkable season, has articulated a desire that resonates with every professional footballer: to be recognized as the world’s best.

Ruiz, at 30 years old, has enjoyed a sensational campaign that has seen him achieve the pinnacle of both club and international football. Lifting the Champions League trophy with PSG and, even more significantly, securing the World Cup with Spain, has propelled him into conversations previously reserved for a select few. His performances throughout these triumphs have been nothing short of exceptional, showcasing a blend of tactical intelligence, technical prowess, and an uncanny ability to dictate the tempo of a game.

The World Cup, in particular, served as a global stage for Ruiz to demonstrate his undeniable talent. As the tournament progressed, his name began to circulate with increasing frequency among pundits and fans alike as a genuine contender for individual accolades. This growing recognition is a testament to his consistent high-level play and his ability to perform under immense pressure.

When questioned about his aspirations, Ruiz’s response, as reported by Marca, was both humble and resolute: “Who wouldn’t want to win a Ballon d’Or? I’m happy with the season I have had, winning the Champions League and the World Cup. If I’m in the running, it will be an honour.” This statement encapsulates the sentiment of a player who appreciates his current successes while simultaneously striving for even greater heights.

Fabian Ruiz’s declaration injects an exciting narrative into the footballing world. As he continues to perform at an elite level, all eyes will be on whether this gifted midfielder can transform his audacious ambition into reality and etch his name into the annals of football history as a Ballon d’Or winner.

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