CISLAC Pushes For Higher Tobacco Taxes To Cut Health Risks
CISLAC Advocates Stronger Tobacco Tax Regime
THE Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has intensified its call for increased taxation on tobacco products, describing the measure as a critical public health intervention rather than a revenue-driven policy.
Speaking during the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Personality Interview Series in Abuja, the Executive Director of CISLAC and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, Auwal Rafsanjani, said the organisation’s advocacy is rooted in the urgent need to reduce tobacco-related illnesses across the country.
According to Rafsanjani, tobacco consumption continues to contribute significantly to life-threatening conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and other chronic illnesses, placing an enormous strain on Nigeria’s fragile healthcare system.
Public Health Over Profit
Rafsanjani emphasised that while increased tobacco taxes may generate additional government revenue, financial gains are not the primary objective of the campaign.
“The percentage might not be that much, but at least it is something the government can take from the consumption of tobacco in Nigeria to address some of the damages tobacco causes,” he said.
He explained that the ultimate goal is to discourage tobacco use, particularly among young people and low-income earners who are often most vulnerable to addiction and its health consequences.
In a country where healthcare financing remains limited and out-of-pocket expenses dominate, Rafsanjani argued that preventing tobacco-related diseases is more cost-effective than treating them.
“If consumption continues to destroy the health of citizens, whatever revenue you gain from it should help fix that health crisis,” he added.
Funding Prevention and Treatment
CISLAC is also proposing that funds realised from tobacco taxation be specifically earmarked for public health programmes, including awareness campaigns, treatment of tobacco-induced illnesses, and broader preventive healthcare initiatives.
Rafsanjani underscored the need for government to prioritise policies that protect citizens from preventable diseases, noting that tobacco-related deaths and illnesses are largely avoidable through regulatory measures and public education.
He maintained that raising tobacco tariffs would send a strong signal about Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding public health while simultaneously creating fiscal space to address the long-term health costs associated with tobacco use.
As debates around fiscal reforms and public health funding continue, CISLAC’s position adds to growing calls for Nigeria to align with global best practices that use taxation as a tool to curb harmful consumption and promote healthier societies.
