By Jane Okeke
The Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance (NTCA) has called for stronger government action against tobacco industry interference, warning that attempts to influence public policies and weaken existing regulations could undermine Nigeria’s efforts to protect public health.
The alliance made the call on Thursday, November 5, 2026, in Abuja, at the launch of its Tobacco Industry Monitoring Report and the unveiling of the National Tobacco Control Resource Centre.
Speaking at the event, NTCA Board Chairman, Akinbode Oluwafemi, expressed concern over proposed amendments to the National Tobacco Control Act of 2015, alleging that some provisions could weaken existing safeguards and reverse gains recorded in tobacco control over the years.
Oluwafemi also criticised government engagements and partnerships with tobacco companies, arguing that such relationships could allow commercial interests to influence decisions that should be guided by public health considerations.
He urged the Federal Government to end partnerships and endorsements involving tobacco companies, strengthen enforcement of restrictions on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship, and intensify measures to protect children and young people from tobacco and emerging nicotine products.
The NTCA chairman also called on journalists to investigate alleged irregularities surrounding the proposed amendment to the tobacco control law, particularly claims that provisions were introduced into a consolidated bill without adequate legislative scrutiny or public consultation.
Earlier, NTCA Alliance Coordinator, Olawale Makanjuola, said the Industry Monitoring Report documents what he described as covert industry strategies, aggressive marketing practices and attempts to influence government policies through corporate social responsibility initiatives and other engagements.
Makanjuola described the report as both an early warning system and an action guide, providing evidence that government agencies, civil society organisations and the media could use to identify and challenge tobacco industry interference.
Similarly, the In-country Coordinator of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, Barrister Michael Olaniyan, described the National Tobacco Control Resource Centre as an important addition to Nigeria’s tobacco control framework, noting that it would provide accessible research materials, campaign resources and practical information for advocates, journalists and policymakers.
Olaniyan said the centre would complement existing scientific research by making relevant information and advocacy materials readily available to stakeholders, while supporting campaigns against activities capable of undermining public health interventions.
The advocates called on the Federal Government, civil society organisations and the media to use the report and the newly unveiled centre to strengthen accountability, improve enforcement of tobacco control regulations and protect Nigerians from the health and economic consequences of tobacco use.
