Rivers tobacco control efforts are being strengthened to reduce youth nicotine use, prevent addiction and curb exposure to second-hand smoke

The Rivers State Government has announced plans to strengthen tobacco control measures and intensify efforts to protect residents from second-hand smoke exposure amid growing concerns about rising nicotine use among young people.

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The acting Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Vincent Wachukwu, disclosed the initiative on Monday during a news briefing in Port Harcourt to commemorate the 2026 World No Tobacco Day.

Wachukwu said the state was collaborating with stakeholders and development partners to reinforce tobacco control policies and public health protections aimed at reducing tobacco consumption and preventing nicotine addiction, particularly among adolescents.

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

The health official noted that Rivers Tobacco Control efforts had become increasingly important due to evolving marketing strategies employed by tobacco and nicotine companies, which often target younger consumers through flavoured products, appealing packaging and emerging nicotine alternatives.

According to him, this year’s World No Tobacco Day theme draws attention to industry tactics designed to make harmful products appear attractive and less dangerous, especially to first-time users.

Wachukwu described tobacco use as one of the leading preventable causes of death globally, linking it to serious health conditions including heart disease, stroke, cancer and chronic respiratory illnesses.

“Tobacco use remains one of the leading preventable causes of death worldwide and a major contributor to heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and other non-communicable diseases,” he said.

He also highlighted the broader economic and social consequences of tobacco use, noting that tobacco-related illnesses place substantial pressure on families, communities and healthcare systems.

Expressing concern over the growing popularity of alternative nicotine products among adolescents and young adults, Wachukwu warned that many are deliberately marketed as fashionable and harmless despite carrying significant health risks.

“Many of these products are deliberately designed to appear modern, fashionable and less harmful, creating a false sense of safety while exposing users to the risks of lifelong nicotine dependence and addiction,” he said.

The acting Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Siminalayi Fubara to enforcing tobacco control regulations, expanding public awareness campaigns and promoting healthier environments across the state.

He called on parents, teachers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to support efforts aimed at educating young people about the dangers of tobacco use and nicotine addiction.

“The future we seek is one in which every child can grow up free from the influence of tobacco and nicotine addiction. That future begins with the actions we take today,” he said.

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Wachukwu also commended healthcare workers, civil society organisations, schools, development partners and media practitioners for their continued advocacy and support in advancing Rivers Tobacco Control initiatives.