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Over 5 Million Nigerian Youths Addicted to Cigarette Smoking, Urgent Action Needed |
Nigeria faces a dual challenge of Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs), responsible for about 25% of all deaths in the country. Oluwafemi expressed concern about the bleak future for Nigeria, especially with 5 million youths aged 15 to 25 addicted to smoking cigarettes and other harmful substances.
Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has revealed that tobacco smoking has claimed the lives of over 80 million people globally. Additionally, CAPPA highlighted that approximately five million young Nigerians are currently addicted to cigarette smoking.
Speaking at the National Stakeholders Engagement on Smoke-free Nollywood in Enugu, CAPPA's Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, emphasized the urgent need to address this alarming trend. He pointed out that 75% of global smoking-related deaths occur in developing countries.
Nigeria faces a dual challenge of Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs), responsible for about 25% of all deaths in the country. Oluwafemi expressed concern about the bleak future for Nigeria, especially with 5 million youths aged 15 to 25 addicted to smoking cigarettes and other harmful substances.
To combat the harmful effects of smoking, regulations have been implemented to curb consumption and advertising. However, tobacco producers have turned to the film and entertainment industry to market their products. The stakeholders' engagement aims to address this issue and promote a smoke-free future.
Dr. Shaibu Husseni, the Executive Director of the National Films and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), echoed the concerns about smoking's impact. He emphasized that portraying smoking in videos and media could further jeopardize a society already grappling with vices.
Husseni called for collective efforts to sanitize the film industry and promote healthier lives. He urged producers and actors to regulate themselves, ensuring that films, musical videos, and skits avoid depicting and glamorizing harmful substances like tobacco smoking, violence, criminal acts, ritual killings, and money rituals.
Recognizing the central role of the film industry in entertainment and creativity, Husseni emphasized the need to prioritize progress while maintaining cultural integrity. The NFVCB, established by Decree No. 85 of 1993 (now CAP N40, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004), remains committed to regulating the film industry and promoting quality productions.
Since its inception, the Nigerian film industry has evolved significantly in terms of both the number of movies produced and their quality. By fostering a smoke-free environment and responsible content, the industry can continue to thrive and set an example for Africa.
