By Jane Okeke
The Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance, NTCA, has urged the National Assembly to recall the consolidated National Tobacco Control Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, for a fresh review, citing concerns that some of its provisions could weaken existing tobacco-control safeguards.
In a statement signed by Emmanuel Onwuka, Communications Officer, Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance, the group said the proposed amendments could create regulatory openings for emerging tobacco and nicotine products and undermine efforts to protect Nigerians from their health risks.
The Alliance specifically questioned the proposed inclusion of electronic nicotine and non-nicotine delivery systems, heated tobacco products and tobacco-free oral nicotine pouches under the non-combustible products framework.
It also objected to provisions that could allow vaping for product sampling at points of sale, warning that such measures may contribute to the promotion and normalisation of emerging nicotine products, particularly among young people.
The NTCA further raised concerns over proposed advertising, promotional and sponsorship provisions, including point-of-sale materials, online adult advertising and sponsorship of cultural, social and recreational events targeted at persons aged 18 and above.
The group said the proposed 50 per cent adult-readership threshold for defining an “adult publication” may not sufficiently protect children and young people from exposure to tobacco and nicotine marketing, particularly through digital platforms with substantial underage audiences.
The Alliance also questioned provisions allowing online and remote sales of non-combustible products through mail, shipping and courier services, saying weaknesses in age verification, third-party vendors and regulatory enforcement could increase minors’ access to regulated tobacco and nicotine products.
On enforcement and health warnings, the NTCA expressed concern over proposed changes to penalty provisions and warning requirements, saying reduced or removed health warnings could weaken public awareness of the risks associated with emerging tobacco and nicotine products.
The Alliance is therefore calling on the National Assembly to suspend further transmission of the Bill, publish relevant committee reports, voting records and stakeholder submissions, and consult public health institutions, civil society organisations and other affected stakeholders before taking further legislative action, with priority given to protecting children and young people and preventing nicotine dependence.
