Why govt must raise tobacco taxes – CISLAC

By Abbas Bamalli

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has urged the Federal Government to raise taxes on tobacco products to reduce consumption nationwide.

CISLAC Executive Director, Auwal Rafsanjani, made the call on Saturday during a media training in Katsina.

Represented by Programme Manager, Mohammed Murtala, Rafsanjani said tobacco products remained relatively affordable in Nigeria.

He said, “The low cost of tobacco products has contributed significantly to widespread use, especially among low-income households.”

Rafsanjani said higher taxes would increase prices and discourage consumption, particularly among vulnerable groups and young people.

He said, “Taxation remains one of the most effective tools for reducing tobacco use.”

Rafsanjani said the training aimed to strengthen journalists’ capacity, especially women, in tobacco control and public health advocacy.

He expressed concern over continued smoking in public places despite regulations banning the practice.

He said, “Existing laws must be enforced to protect non-smokers and discourage harmful behaviour.”

Rafsanjani urged the media to intensify public education and support stronger enforcement of tobacco control laws.

Earlier, CISLAC Senior Programme Officer, Solomon Adoga, warned about tobacco’s economic and health consequences.

He described tobacco as “deadly” and harmful to national health, economic productivity and sustainable development.

Adoga said cigarettes, shisha, smokeless tobacco and e-cigarettes all posed severe health risks.

He warned that tobacco use could cause cancers affecting the mouth, throat and bladder.

Citing the World Health Organisation, Adoga said tobacco caused about eight million deaths globally each year.

Participants praised CISLAC for the initiative and pledged stronger reporting on tobacco-related health concerns.

(NAN)