Rivers seeks stronger tobacco control, targets healthier environment

Rivers State Government has declared its intention to strengthen tobacco control measures in a bid to curb the harmful impact of tobacco and nicotine use and ensure a healthier environment for citizens.

This was made known, Monday, as the State Ministry of Health held a press briefing in Port Harcourt to commemorate the “World No Tobacco Day 2026.”

Vincent Wachukwu, Permanent Secretary, State Ministry of Health, said that tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide.

He said that the State Government joined the global call to take stronger action to protect the present and future generations from the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine addiction.

Wachukwu noted that this year’s theme, ‘Unmasking the Appeal, Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction,’ highlights the tactics used, by the tobacco and nicotine industry to make harmful products attractive, particularly to young people and first-time users.

“Through appealing flavours, deceptive marketing, attractive packaging, and emerging nicotine products, the industry continues to create new pathways to addiction, while masking the devastating health consequences of tobacco use,” he said.

Wachukwu stressed that tobacco use remains one of the leading preventable causes of death worldwide, and a major contributor to heart disease, stroke, cancer, and other non-communicable diseases.

He added that the State Government remains committed to strengthening tobacco control measures, supporting public education initiatives, and working with stakeholders to create healthier, safer environments for all residents.

“We recognise that protecting public health requires strong laws, effective enforcement, sustained public awareness, and collective action.

“The Rivers State Government, ably led by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, through the Ministry of Health, remains committed to strengthening tobacco control measures, supporting public education initiatives, and working with stakeholders to create healthier, safer environments for all residents.

“As part of ongoing efforts to advance public health, Rivers State is actively working with key stakeholders and partners to strengthen tobacco control policies and enhance protection against exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke,” Wachukwu said.