Kano and Jigawa Lead in Tobacco Smoking Rates in Nigeria – Report

Kano and Jigawa states have been identified as the leading states in Nigeria when it comes to tobacco consumption, according to the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC). Solomon Adoga, the senior programs officer at CISLAC, made this statement during a one-day multi-stakeholders’ engagement on tobacco taxation in Jigawa State.

The primary objective of this engagement, organized by CISLAC with support from the Tax Justice Network, is to address the high level of tobacco usage in the state, particularly among the youth.

Adoga emphasized the need for the state government to adopt and implement the National Tobacco Control Act (2015) and Tobacco Tax Policy in order to protect the lives of the young generation, who are the future leaders of the country.

To raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco and advocate for the adoption of these laws, CISLAC is actively engaging with various stakeholders, including traditional and religious leaders, youth groups, civil society organizations, and the media.

Tobacco smoking remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, with Kano and Jigawa states emerging as the leading regions with high smoking rates. Despite efforts to curb tobacco use through awareness campaigns and regulations, these states continue to grapple with high rates of tobacco consumption, posing challenges to public health initiatives.

Kano, the most populous state in Nigeria, has long struggled with high rates of tobacco use. The prevalence of smoking in Kano can be attributed to various factors, including cultural practices, socioeconomic factors, and limited enforcement of tobacco control policies. Tobacco use is deeply ingrained in the social fabric of the state, with smoking often perceived as a normative behavior among certain demographics.

Jigawa, located in the northwestern region of Nigeria, faces similar challenges regarding tobacco smoking. The state’s rural nature, coupled with limited access to healthcare and educational resources, contributes to higher smoking rates. Additionally, cultural factors and societal norms play a significant role in perpetuating tobacco use in Jigawa.

The implications of high tobacco smoking rates extend beyond individual health risks to broader societal and economic consequences. Smoking-related illnesses impose a significant burden on the healthcare system, diverting resources away from other essential health services. Moreover, tobacco use contributes to lost productivity and economic strain, as individuals suffer from illnesses that affect their ability to work and earn a livelihood.

Efforts to address the issue of tobacco smoking in Kano and Jigawa must adopt a multifaceted approach that considers the unique cultural, socioeconomic, and environmental factors at play. Comprehensive tobacco control strategies should involve collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

One crucial aspect of tobacco control is the implementation and enforcement of regulations to restrict tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship. Strict enforcement of laws prohibiting smoking in public places can help reduce exposure to secondhand smoke and discourage tobacco use among the population.

Additionally, public awareness campaigns aimed at educating communities about the health risks associated with tobacco smoking are essential. These campaigns should target various stakeholders, including youth, women, religious leaders, and community elders, to effect behavioral change and promote smoke-free environments.

Access to smoking cessation services and support programs is another critical component of tobacco control efforts. Healthcare providers should be trained to deliver evidence-based interventions to help individuals quit smoking and prevent relapse. Furthermore, the availability of affordable and accessible nicotine replacement therapies can facilitate smoking cessation efforts.

Community engagement and empowerment are vital for fostering sustainable change in attitudes towards tobacco use. By involving local leaders, religious institutions, and community-based organizations, stakeholders can mobilize support for tobacco control initiatives and challenge social norms that perpetuate smoking.

Addressing the high rates of tobacco smoking in Kano and Jigawa requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society. By implementing comprehensive tobacco control measures, raising public awareness, and empowering communities, stakeholders can work together to reduce the prevalence of tobacco use and improve public health outcomes in these states.