By Toyin Victor, ABUJA
Civil society organisations and tobacco control advocates have called for stronger and more coordinated responses as the tobacco industry continues to evolve its tactics, particularly in reaching young people.
The call came during a two-day capacity-building workshop organised by the Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance, NTCA, for CSOs and tobacco control advocates under the theme, “Advancing Interference, Advancing Policy: The Future of Tobacco Control.”
The workshop provided participants with an opportunity to examine emerging challenges in tobacco control and assess whether existing policy and advocacy efforts are keeping pace with the rapidly changing industry.
Discussions focused on the Proposed Tobacco Control Act Amendment Bill, changing tobacco industry strategies and the growing presence of new and emerging tobacco products.
Participants expressed concern over products designed with modern and attractive features, saying their increasing visibility could make them appealing to young people and create another generation of tobacco consumers.
The advocates also shared experiences and examined ways to strengthen public awareness, policy advocacy and collective action in response to the evolving tobacco control environment.
They stressed that tobacco control efforts can no longer focus only on conventional tobacco products, but must also address emerging products, new marketing messages and tactics being used to influence public perception and consumption.
The participants left the workshop with renewed commitment to strengthening collaboration and advocating policies that prioritise public health and protect young people as the tobacco industry continues to evolve its tactics.