Rivers Govt Restates Commitment To Strengthening Tobacco Control Measures

Rivers State government has restated its commitment to strengthening tobacco control measures and supporting public education initiatives.

The permanent secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr Vincent Wachuku, who disclosed this in Port Harcourt yesterday while briefing journalists on the World No Tobacco Day 2026, said the state government is also committed to working with stakeholders to create healthier and safer environments for all residents.

“In Rivers State, we recognise that protecting public health requires strong laws, effective enforcement, sustained public awareness and collective action.

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

“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.

“These efforts aim to ensure that our legal and policy frameworks reflect global best practices and provide stronger safeguards for the health and well-being of our people, particularly children and young people, who remain most vulnerable to tobacco industry influence,” Wachuku said.

He stated 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.

The permanent secretary further stated that 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.

Wachuku said: “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.

“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.