Civil society organisations, CSOs have praised the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, and the Nigerian delegation for their “outstanding leadership” at the 11th Session of the Conference of the Parties, COP11, to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, WHO-FCTC in Geneva.
In a joint statement, CAPPA, NTCA, CYID, and CISLAC commended Nigeria for resisting tobacco industry interference and taking principled positions to protect public health, particularly on regulating emerging tobacco and nicotine products.
COP11, held from 17–22 November, brought together over 1,400 delegates from 162 Parties to review progress under the global tobacco treaty and discuss strategies for accelerated implementation.
The CSOs highlighted Nigeria’s role in the African Group, helping resolve negotiation deadlocks and strengthen the bloc’s collective stance. They also praised Nigerian experts, including Dr. Omotayo Francis Fagbule, for their active participation.
However, the groups urged Nigeria to match its global performance with domestic action, including stronger enforcement of the National Tobacco Control Act, protection from industry interference, and adequate funding.
“After being a strong voice in Geneva, the real work begins at home,” the statement said. “Nigeria must translate leadership into concrete action so citizens, especially young people, can benefit from protections championed globally.”