A coalition of tobacco control and public health organisations has called for the immediate withdrawal of the proposed amendment to Nigeria’s National Tobacco Control Act (NTCA) 2015, warning that it could weaken existing tobacco regulations and expose more young people to harmful nicotine products.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, the coalition described the National Tobacco Control Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 as a major setback to the country’s public health efforts.
The groups urged the National Assembly to recall the bill and called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to withhold assent if it is forwarded for approval.
According to the coalition, the proposed amendment would relax restrictions on electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, nicotine pouches and other non-combustible tobacco products instead of strengthening regulations.
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The organisations argued that the current law was enacted to protect public health by placing strict limits on tobacco advertising, promotion, sponsorship and sales.
They alleged that the amendment would reverse those safeguards by allowing wider promotion and easier access to newer nicotine products.
The coalition also faulted provisions that would permit advertising in publications targeted at adults, online promotions, point-of-sale displays and home delivery of non-combustible tobacco products.
It warned that such measures could increase young people’s exposure to tobacco and nicotine products, especially through digital platforms.
Citing demographic and internet usage statistics, the groups said Nigeria’s youthful population would be particularly vulnerable if the proposed changes become law.
They also expressed concerns over provisions allowing manufacturers to classify product information as trade secrets, arguing that it would reduce transparency and limit independent public health scrutiny.
The organisations further criticised proposed changes to packaging and health warning requirements, saying they would weaken consumer protection and make some tobacco products more affordable and accessible.
The coalition questioned how the bill progressed in its current form, demanding the release of committee reports, public hearing records and other legislative documents related to the amendment.
It also called on the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Attorney-General of the Federation and other relevant agencies to publicly clarify their positions on the bill.
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The groups maintained that all tobacco and nicotine products should remain subject to one comprehensive regulatory framework, with strict controls on advertising, promotion, sponsorship, retail displays and online sales.
They urged health professionals, civil society organisations, development partners, the media and Nigerians to support efforts aimed at preserving the integrity of the National Tobacco Control Act.
“Protecting public health is a shared responsibility, and every effort must be made to ensure that Nigeria’s tobacco control laws continue to place the health and wellbeing of its people above commercial interests,” the coalition stated.
