Korede Abdullah in Lagos
On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning about the increasing use of tobacco and nicotine products among African youth.
In a statement, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, said the day’s theme, Unmasking the Appeal, urges immediate action to “protect young people from harmful industry tactics that threaten their health and future.”
Despite long-standing efforts to reduce tobacco use, Dr. Ihekweazu noted, “the industry continues to reinvent its approach,” using flavoured products, sleek packaging, and digital marketing to lure adolescents.
Dr. Ihekweazu highlighted the severe toll tobacco takes on the continent, with over 146,000 annual deaths in the region and more than 61 million users. Particularly troubling is the growing prevalence of tobacco use among adolescents aged 13 to 15, with more than 6% already using tobacco products—often enticed by “misleading designs and messages.”
He stressed that early exposure to nicotine significantly harms the developing brain and increases the risk of addiction, chronic diseases, and long-term health consequences, making quitting more difficult as users grow older.
Calling on all sectors—governments, schools, families, and communities, Dr. Ihekweazu urged collective action to eliminate tobacco’s influence on youth.
“We must ban flavours and product designs that appeal to young users, regulate digital advertising, and ensure packaging doesn’t mimic snacks or toys,” he stated.
While acknowledging progress in tobacco control across African countries, he emphasized that “more must be done to stay ahead of evolving tactics.”
Concluding his message, he declared, “Protecting the next generation is both a public health priority and a moral imperative.”
