The management of University of Benin has announced a new policy restricting the sale and distribution of sachet and bottled water brands not produced by the institution within its campuses.
The directive, which affects both the Ugbowo and Ekehuan campuses of the university, is expected to take effect from Monday, May 11, 2026, according to an official circular issued by the Registrar on May 8.
Under the new arrangement, only water produced by the UNIBEN Water Factory will be permitted for sale, distribution, and serving at shops, offices, hostels, ceremonies, and official events within the university environment.
The university explained that the decision followed the significant expansion in the production capacity of the institution’s water factory, which now reportedly produces approximately 8,000 sachet bags and 1,000 packs of bottled water daily.
Management noted that the development was part of efforts to strengthen internal production systems, improve institutional self-reliance, and promote products manufactured within the university community.
According to the circular, all business operators, food vendors, event organisers, and relevant campus authorities have been directed to comply strictly with the policy, warning that enforcement measures would commence immediately after the implementation date.
The university further stressed that no other brand of sachet or bottled water would be allowed within shops or at social and official gatherings held on both campuses.
The move has generated discussions among students and business owners within the university community, with many awaiting further clarification on distribution channels, pricing, and enforcement procedures.
Some students described the policy as a strategic attempt by the institution to boost internally generated revenue and support local production, while others expressed concerns about market competition and consumer choice.
University officials, however, maintained that the increased production capacity of the UNIBEN Water Factory would adequately meet the daily water needs of staff, students, and visitors across the campuses.
The management reiterated its commitment to ensuring smooth implementation of the policy while urging members of the university community to cooperate with the directive in the overall interest of institutional development.
