For two days, a group of civil society organisations and tobacco control advocates came together with one concern in common: how do we stay ahead of an industry that is constantly finding new ways to reach the public, especially young people?
The Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance (NTCA) organised the two-day capacity-building workshop for CSOs and tobacco control advocates under the theme, “Advancing Interference, Advancing Policy: The Future of Tobacco Control.”
But for many of the participants, it was more than another training workshop.
It became a space to pause, reflect and take a closer look at how quickly the tobacco control environment is changing.
Across the two days, participants examined the realities facing tobacco control today, including the Proposed Tobacco Control Act Amendment Bill, the changing strategies used by the tobacco industry and the growing presence of new and emerging tobacco products.
From products designed to look modern and attractive to products increasingly finding their way into the hands of young people, the discussions brought home a troubling reality: the tobacco industry is changing, and tobacco control efforts must change with it.
The workshop also provided an opportunity for participants to share experiences, challenge existing approaches and consider what stronger policy and advocacy responses should look like.
The challenge is no longer only about the tobacco products many people already know. It is also about understanding the new products, new messages and new tactics being used to create another generation of consumers.
Participants left with more than new knowledge. They left with a renewed understanding of the need to remain alert, strengthen collective advocacy and keep pushing for policies that put public health ahead of industry interests.
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