The National Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Pharm. Ambrose Igwe Kammah Ezeh, has called on the Federal Government to adopt stronger tobacco control measures, warning that Nigeria can no longer sustain the devastating health and economic consequences of tobacco use.
Speaking during a press briefing to mark the 2026 World No Tobacco Day, Ezeh described tobacco as one of the deadliest consumer products globally and urged authorities to pursue tougher regulations, including measures that reduce nicotine content in tobacco products or impose stricter restrictions on tobacco consumption.
He disclosed that tobacco-related illnesses account for between 26,000 and 28,000 deaths annually in Nigeria, while smoking-related diseases cost the country an estimated ₦634 billion yearly through healthcare expenses and productivity losses.
The ACPN Chairman raised concern over the increasing use of tobacco and nicotine products among young people, accusing tobacco companies of targeting younger populations through attractive flavours, aggressive branding, deceptive packaging, and sophisticated marketing strategies designed to encourage addiction.
He also warned against the growing popularity of e-cigarettes and other nicotine delivery systems, describing them as products that sustain nicotine dependence while attracting new users into long-term addiction.
Speaking on this year’s theme, *“Unmasking the Appeal: Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction,”* Ezeh said the campaign highlights the urgent need to confront nicotine addiction and expose tactics used by tobacco companies to expand their market.
He maintained that despite existing tobacco control laws and regulations, weak enforcement has continued to undermine efforts aimed at reducing tobacco consumption across the country.
The ACPN President stressed that tobacco offers no proven health benefit and remains directly linked to cancers, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illnesses, and other life-threatening conditions.
He called on policymakers to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, implement tougher legislative measures, and pursue bold reforms capable of protecting present and future generations from nicotine addiction and tobacco-related diseases.
Ezeh urged government agencies, healthcare professionals, civil society organisations, and citizens to unite against tobacco addiction, emphasizing that stronger political will and sustained public awareness remain critical to building a healthier, tobacco-free Nigeria.
