CAPPA, NTCA Raise Concerns Over Gaps In Nigeria’s Tobacco Control Legislation

The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) and the Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance (NTCA) have expressed concerns about the absence of a clearly defined National Tobacco Smoking Control Act, raising questions about the legislative intent and procedural gaps in tobacco regulation.

During a media briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Zikora Ibeh, CAPPA’s Senior Programme Manager for Policy Research, urged the withdrawal of two proposed bills—House Bill (HB) 47 and HB 1151—aimed at amending the National Tobacco Control Act (NTCA) 2015.

Ibeh highlighted that a public hearing was held last week in the House of Representatives to review these bills, emphasizing their potential to enhance tobacco control in Nigeria. However, she pointed out that both bills contain flaws that could undermine their effectiveness.

HB 1151, which proposes stricter penalties for smoking violations, was criticized for misrepresenting the title of the Principal Act and referencing incorrect sections for amendment.
HB 47, intended to address loopholes in the NTCA 2015 and ensure its effective implementation, was praised for its intent but noted to require further refinement. CAPPA stressed the need to close regulatory gaps that the tobacco industry could exploit.

Ibeh emphasized the urgency of expanding regulatory frameworks to include emerging tobacco products such as vapes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, heat-not-burn devices, and smokeless tobacco, which are not adequately covered under the current NTCA 2015.

Reports indicate that discussions are underway to review the NTCA 2015, aiming to bolster Nigeria’s tobacco control efforts. CAPPA and NTCA reiterated the importance of prioritizing public health over industry profits, calling for comprehensive amendments that align with global best practices in tobacco regulation.

This call to action underscores the need for robust legislation to protect Nigerians from the harmful effects of tobacco and emerging nicotine products.