Gom Mirian
The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called on the government to promptly review the Sugar-sweetened Beverages tax and take strict measures to regulate industry activities.
The Executive Director of CAPPA, Akinbode Oluwafemi, made this plea on Wednesday during the National Sugar-sweetened Beverages Tax Coalition’s conference in Abuja.
Oluwafemi emphasised the importance of reinforcing messages about the dangers of SSB consumption, advocating for an immediate review of the tax, and urging the government to take stringent action on industry activities.
He highlighted the clash between the pursuit of profit and public health, stating, “We are at a point where the sugary lure of profit clashes with the very essence of our well-being – our health.”
Oluwafemi pointed out that the SSB industry has long portrayed sugary drinks as innocent pleasures, but beneath the appealing facade lies a grim reality.
“SSBs are packed with empty calories, contributing to a public health crisis of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.
“The statistics are alarming, with one in ten Nigerians now living with diabetes, placing a significant burden on individuals and the country’s healthcare system,” he added
Oluwafemi also criticised the industry for actively targeting children and youths with sugary advertising and social activities, normalising unhealthy habits during crucial stages of development.
