Nigeria has recorded significant progress in tobacco control over the past decade.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, told global delegates at the ongoing 11th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP11) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in Geneva.
Addressing more than 1,400 participants at the high-level meeting, Dr. Salako said new national data shows a continued decline in adult tobacco use, strengthened enforcement, and impactful regulatory actions that demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to public health.
The minister highlighted the successful completion of the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS 2025), which confirms further drops in daily smoking and a sharp rise in smokers considering quitting after seeing graphic health warnings, from 26.7% in 2012 to 43.3% in 2025.
He noted that exposure to secondhand smoke has also fallen across homes, public buildings, restaurants, transport systems, schools, and tertiary institutions.
Despite the gains, he warned that sustaining progress requires stronger nationwide enforcement and vigilance against industry interference.
Dr. Salako outlined key policy documents guiding national implementation of the Tobacco Control Act and Regulations, including the National Tobacco Control Strategic Plan of Action (2024–2028), the Communication Strategy (2024–2028) and the Enforcement Plan (2024–2028), describing them as tools that ensure a coordinated, multisectoral approach.
One of Nigeria’s most notable achievements, he said, is its advancement of Article 19 of the WHO FCTC, which encourages holding tobacco companies accountable. He pointed to the $110 million fine recently imposed by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on British American Tobacco Nigeria for multiple violations.
The minister also praised new regulations by the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) banning tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship (TAPS) across films, TV, music videos and digital platforms, a move he said strengthens protection for young people in line with Article 13 of the WHO FCTC.
However, he noted that challenges persist, including increased marketing of new nicotine products and industry interference, calling for deeper global cooperation and technical support.
Other sessions at COP11 included a Belgian-led ministerial roundtable on rising nicotine addiction among young people, especially through e-cigarettes, and national experiences in regulating these products.
COP11, themed “20 Years of Change-Uniting Generations for a Tobacco-Free Future,” continues ahead of the Fourth Meeting of Parties to the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products scheduled for November 24–26.