The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is set to address the grievances of members of the Food, Beverage & Tobacco Senior Staff Association (FOBTOB), following a peaceful protest held at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Abuja.
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In a press release signed by Director of Information in the ministry, Deworitshe Patricia, the Coordinating Minister, Professor Ali Pate, assured the association that their concerns regarding the ban on sachet and pet bottled alcoholic beverages would be addressed.
During the protest, which saw the attendance of association members, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Kachallom Daju who represented the Minister and conveyed the Ministry’s commitment to engage with stakeholders.
“What l am saying now is that we have heard your grievances, this is a listening Government, we are going to discuss with partners, Trade Union Congress and other members on the way forward,” she said.
National President of FOBTOB, Comrade Jomoh Oyibo, expressed dissatisfaction with the recent ban imposed by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) on the manufacturing, sales, and consumption of alcoholic beverages in sachets and pet bottles.
Oyibo highlighted the adverse impact of the ban on entrepreneurs, their dependents, and the workforce, particularly considering the current economic dynamics in Nigeria.
In response, the Ministry affirmed its stance as a listening government and pledged to engage in discussions with relevant partners to address the grievances raised by FOBTOB.
“The timing of the ban was a crucial concern, prompting appeals for timely intervention to mitigate the challenges faced by the association and its members,” she said.
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