Lagos, Nigeria — The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has expressed concern over the increasing availability and promotion of nicotine products in Nigeria, warning that aggressive marketing strategies could expose more young people to nicotine addiction and related health risks.
The organisation said the growing presence of emerging nicotine products, including electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and other smokeless alternatives, poses a significant public health challenge, particularly for adolescents and young adults.
CAPPA noted that while some manufacturers market these products as safer alternatives to traditional tobacco products, evidence suggests that nicotine remains highly addictive and can have harmful effects on brain development, especially among young people.
Concerns Over Youth Exposure
According to the group, the packaging, flavours, and advertising techniques used to promote many nicotine products appear designed to appeal to younger consumers.
CAPPA warned that colourful branding, sweet flavours, and extensive social media promotion could encourage experimentation among teenagers and young adults, increasing the risk of long-term nicotine dependence.
The organisation called on regulatory authorities to strengthen oversight of the marketing, sale, and distribution of nicotine products to prevent underage access and protect vulnerable populations.
Call for Stronger Regulations
CAPPA urged policymakers to implement stricter measures aimed at controlling the promotion of nicotine products and ensuring compliance with existing tobacco control laws.
The group also advocated increased public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the health risks associated with nicotine use and addiction.
According to CAPPA, effective regulation, public education, and stronger enforcement mechanisms are necessary to prevent a new generation of Nigerians from becoming dependent on nicotine products.
Public Health at Stake
The organisation stressed that protecting young people from nicotine addiction should remain a public health priority, warning that the rapid growth of alternative nicotine products could undermine years of progress made in tobacco control efforts.
CAPPA maintained that governments, health institutions, parents, educators, and civil society organisations must work together to address the challenge and safeguard the health and wellbeing of future generations.
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