From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
The Katsina State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Musa Adamu Funtua, has called for the implementation of effective global and national policies aimed at reducing tobacco consumption, particularly among Nigeria’s growing youth population.
Speaking during a press conference held at the Ministry’s conference hall to commemorate World No Tobacco Day, Dr. Funtua expressed deep concern over the rising cases of cancer, heart disease, and other tobacco-related illnesses in Nigeria.
He warned that the health consequences of tobacco use are becoming more alarming, especially among young Nigerians who are increasingly vulnerable to the tactics of the tobacco industry.
“Tobacco use globally causes over eight million deaths every year,” the Commissioner stated. “In Nigeria, we are seeing a troubling rise in non-communicable diseases linked to tobacco consumption.”
Dr. Funtua described this year’s World No Tobacco Day theme, “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference,” as timely and critical.
He stressed that the youth in Nigeria are being aggressively targeted through manipulative marketing strategies, including the use of e-cigarettes, flavored tobacco products, and social media campaigns.
“The theme focuses on exposing these harmful marketing tactics and calls for strengthened legislation against tobacco advertising,” he said. “It is imperative that we shield our children from such exploitation.”
He urged all stakeholders — from parents and educators to policymakers and civil society organizations — to step up efforts in educating and empowering young Nigerians to become anti-tobacco advocates in their schools and communities.
“Protecting our children is not negotiable,” he emphasized. “A society that allows its youth to be exploited by profit-driven tobacco companies is a society at risk.”
Dr. Funtua reaffirmed Katsina State’s commitment to public health and the protection of future generations from the harmful effects of tobacco use.
