The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called on the Federal Government to increase taxes on tobacco products as part of efforts to reduce consumption across Nigeria.
CISLAC Executive Director, Auwal Rafsanjani, made the call on Saturday during a media training in Katsina.
Represented by the organisation’s Programme Manager, Mohammed Murtala, Rafsanjani noted that tobacco products remain relatively affordable in Nigeria, contributing to their widespread use.
“The low cost of tobacco products has significantly driven consumption, particularly among low-income households,” he said.
He explained that increasing taxes would raise prices and discourage usage, especially among vulnerable populations and young people.
“Taxation remains one of the most effective tools for reducing tobacco use,” Rafsanjani added.
He said the training was designed to strengthen the capacity of journalists—particularly women—in tobacco control reporting and public health advocacy.
Rafsanjani also expressed concern over the continued smoking in public places despite existing regulations prohibiting the practice.
“Existing laws must be enforced to protect non-smokers and discourage harmful behaviour,” he said.
He urged the media to intensify public awareness campaigns and support stricter enforcement of tobacco control laws.
Earlier, CISLAC Senior Programme Officer, Solomon Adoga, highlighted the economic and health implications of tobacco use.
He described tobacco as “deadly,” warning that it undermines public health, economic productivity, and sustainable development.
Adoga listed cigarettes, shisha, smokeless tobacco, and e-cigarettes as products that pose significant health risks.
He warned that tobacco use is linked to various cancers, including those affecting the mouth, throat, and bladder.
Citing the World Health Organisation, he noted that tobacco use accounts for approximately eight million deaths globally each year.
Participants at the training commended CISLAC for the initiative and pledged to strengthen reporting on tobacco-related health issues.
