Ayomide Habeeb
Nigeria, a country with a youthful population, is facing a significant threat from the tobacco industry’s targeted marketing tactics aimed at creating a new generation of addicts.
According to the World Health Organisation(WHO), the tobacco epidemics one of the biggest public health challenges globally, killing over eight million people annually.
The WHO reports that 37 million youth aged 13-15 years use tobacco, with 22 African countries on track to achieve a 30% reduction in tobacco use by 2025.
However,progress is being hindered by the rising number of young tobacco smokers due to tobacco industry influence.
The theme for World No Tobacco Day 2024 is “Protecting children from tobacco industry interference,” emphasizing the need to safeguard future generations and reduce tobacco consumption.
The tobacco industry has been accused of targeting children and youth with flavored products, sleek designs, and child-friendly packaging, making addictive products more appealing.
Experts warn that the industry’s tactics include positioning nicotine products as “safer” than cigarettes, potentially distracting policy makers and consumers from the fact that nicotine itself is addictive and harmful, particularly to children and youth.
The WHO and public health champions are calling for collaboration to shield children from the tobacco industry’s clutches, empower them with knowledge, and advocate for policies that prioritize their health.
Journalists have been urged to amplify the voices of youths, expose industry lies, and inspire action through their reports.
The Nigerian government has been urged to strengthen tobacco control policies, improve awareness, and educate the public and policy makers about the devastating health and social consequences of tobacco use.
Experts emphasize that holding tobacco and related industries liable for the harm they cause is crucial to protecting current and future generations.