A medical expert yesterday linked the rising cases of diabetes among Nigerians to high consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs), saying Nigeria is one of the highest consumers of Sugar-Sweetened Beverage (SSBs) in Africa.

Imo State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Michael Ubaka, disclosed while delivering the Igbinedion University Okada (IUO) College of Pharmacy annual lecture series titled, “Sip Smart, Live Long: Why Taxing Sugary Drinks Makes Sense.”

Ubaka warned on the dangers of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) and urged the government to consider an increase in SSB tax, describing it as a global dire public health policy needed in the country.

He added that increased tax on SSBs is key in checking the consumption pattern and that SSBs tax should be targeted on drinks high in sugar content such as soda or soft drinks, energy and sports drinks.

Ubaka said over 40 per cent of Nigerians are suffering from diabetes, noting that the cost of treating the disease is alarming based on the rising cost of healthcare in the country.

He lamented that Nigerians could easily hinge on the high consumption of SSBs on addiction and expressed concern on the need to raise public awareness of its public health implications.

Ubaka said to discourage the high consumption pattern of SSBs among Nigerians, the government should drive a tax reform on Sugary drinks, noting that diabetes as an ailment is not curable but only manageable.