The Ekiti State Government has announced a statewide smoking ban as part of efforts to protect public health and reduce tobacco-related illnesses.
The declaration was made on Friday in Ado-Ekiti during the official flag-off of the 2025 World No Tobacco Day, held in partnership with Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA). This year’s theme is “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing the Tobacco Industry’s Tactics”.
Speaking to journalists at the event, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Filani Oyebanji—represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olusola Gbenga-Igotun—described the ban as a proactive step toward improving the well-being of residents.
Dr. Oyebanji said the campaign will also be extended to other local government areas, noting that tobacco use contributes significantly to preventable diseases and social vices. He called for stronger awareness campaigns, tighter regulations, and comprehensive cessation programmes.
“For decades, the tobacco industry has thrived on a simple but insidious tactic—appeal,” he said.
“They have masked the harsh realities of addiction and disease behind glossy advertisements, celebrity endorsements, flavoured products, and targeted marketing.”
He warned that tobacco companies have aggressively targeted young people through sleek packaging, sweetened flavours, and social media content designed to portray smoking and vaping as trendy.
“But behind this mask lies the grim truth: tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide, responsible for millions of lives lost each year,” he added.
Dr. Oyebanji also noted that tobacco companies are now shifting focus to products like e-cigarettes, vapes, and heated tobacco devices—marketing them as safer alternatives despite the lack of conclusive data on their long-term effects.
“The industry continues to push these alternatives, capitalizing on regulatory gaps and public misinformation,” he stated.
“Today, we must commit ourselves to unmasking these tactics and advocating for truth. We must empower communities with accurate information, strengthen regulations, and support those on the journey to quit.”
Also speaking at the event, CAPPA’s Executive Director, Oluwafemi Akinbode, praised the state government for demonstrating strong political will and aligning with global best practices in public health. He highlighted the Smoke-Free Ekiti Project as a key intervention to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke, shift social norms, and reduce long-term health costs.
Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Bosun Osaloni, also commended the initiative and pledged the council’s full support for enforcement. He assured that violators of the smoking ban would face appropriate penalties under the law.
The World No Tobacco Day event in Ekiti marks a significant step in the state’s public health advocacy, as officials look to implement more robust tobacco control policies to safeguard future generations.
