Ekiti State Government has vowed to not only prohibit smoking in public places, but also declare its state capital a no-go area for the tobacco industry’s products of death and disease.

Recall that Ekiti State has a law prohibiting smoking in public places, enacted on September 25, 2012. The law aims to protect non-smokers’ rights and public health.

Key provisions include fines ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦25,000 and/or imprisonment for 3 to 6 months, depending on the offense.

The government stated this yesterday during the commemoration of the World No Tobacco Day with theme: “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine,” which was organised in partnership with Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), in Ado Ekiti.

Speaking at the commemoration event, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, expressed concern about the manipulative strategies employed by the tobacco and nicotine industry to maintain and expand their grip on consumers, particularly the youth and vulnerable populations.

“They have masked the harsh realities of addiction and disease behind glossy advertisements, celebrity endorsements, flavored products, and targeted marketing. Their goal is clear: to hook new users while retaining the loyalty of the addicted. One of the most concerning aspects of their strategy is the aggressive targeting of young people.

“To combat these tactics, we must: Raise Awareness: Educate the public about the industry’s manipulative strategies.

“Strengthen Regulations: Implement and enforce strict regulations on tobacco products, marketing, and sales,” he said.

In his remarks, the Executive Director of CAPPA, Mr. Akinbode Oluwafemi, expressed worry about the emergence of vaping and other newer tobacco products in recent years, which he said has introduced fresh challenges, particularly among the youth.

“These products are often marketed as safer alternatives, but they are neither safe nor an alternative to good health. On the contrary, the use of e-cigarettes and other vaping devices leads to nicotine addiction, respiratory issues, and potential long-term health consequences.

“The Smoke-Free Ekiti project is therefore a necessary counter to this trend. It will not only protect non-smokers from involuntary exposure but also shift social norms, reduce long-term health burdens, and foster a culture of wellness.

“CAPPA is proud to support this initiative technically and strategically. We are also excited to share that we are currently working closely with the Surulere Local Government Area in Lagos State and the Ado-Ekiti Local Government Area in Ekiti State to drive greater local implementation of the initiative.”

Also in his remarks, the Chairman of Ado Ekiti Local Government, Bosun Osanloni, said that Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, is officially declared a Smoke-Free City.

He said, “With this declaration, we pledge to domesticate in Ado Ekiti Local Government Area the existing Ekiti State Prohibition of Smoking in Public Places Law, 2012.

“Sensitise our communities on the dangers of tobacco and second-hand smoke.Support the implementation and enforcement of the Ekiti State Smoke-Free initiatives across all wards. And protect our children, our workers, and our elders from the harms of tobacco.”