CSOs, Tobacco Control Advocates Urge Stronger Policies as Industry Targets New Generation of Consumers

By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal

Civil society organisations and tobacco control advocates have called for stronger policies and sustained advocacy to counter the evolving strategies of the tobacco industry, particularly its growing efforts to reach young people through new and emerging tobacco products.

The call was made during a two-day capacity-building workshop organised by the Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance (NTCA) for civil society organisations and tobacco control advocates under the theme, “Advancing Interference, Advancing Policy: The Future of Tobacco Control.”

The workshop provided a platform for participants to examine emerging challenges in tobacco control, reflect on existing advocacy approaches and explore ways to strengthen public health responses to the rapidly changing tobacco landscape.

A major focus of the discussions was the Proposed Tobacco Control Act Amendment Bill, alongside emerging trends in the tobacco industry and the increasing availability and visibility of newer tobacco and nicotine products.

Participants noted that the tobacco control landscape had become more complex, with products increasingly designed and marketed in ways that appeal to younger audiences.

The discussions highlighted concerns around products presented as modern or attractive, as well as the potential for their growing accessibility to expose a new generation to tobacco and nicotine use.

The workshop also examined the strategies employed by the tobacco industry to adapt to changing consumer preferences and regulatory environments.

Participants shared experiences from their respective advocacy efforts and considered how civil society organisations could develop more effective responses to emerging industry tactics.

The discussions underscored the need for tobacco control advocates to move beyond conventional approaches and deepen their understanding of new products, messaging and strategies being used to attract potential consumers.

The organisers stressed that tobacco control efforts must evolve alongside the industry, particularly as new products and marketing approaches continue to emerge.

Participants consequently reaffirmed the importance of collective advocacy, stronger policy engagement and sustained vigilance in protecting public health.

They left the workshop with renewed commitment to strengthening tobacco control advocacy and promoting policies that prioritise public health and protect young people from the industry’s evolving strategies.