Writing By Daniel Karlmax; Editing By Godwin Duru
The Arewa Cohesion Initiative (ACI) has joined the global community in commemorating World No Tobacco Day 2026, calling for renewed commitment and collective action to reduce tobacco consumption and protect public health across Nigeria and beyond.
In a statement issued to mark the occasion, the Director General of Arewa Cohesion Initiative (ACI), Dr. Abdullahi Idris, emphasized the need for increased public awareness on the devastating health, social, economic, and environmental consequences of tobacco use.
According to him, tobacco remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide, contributing significantly to heart disease, cancer, respiratory illnesses, and other life-threatening conditions.
He noted that millions of people continue to suffer from the harmful effects of both direct smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
Dr. Idris urged governments at all levels, health institutions, civil society organizations, community leaders, religious leaders, and the media to intensify efforts aimed at discouraging tobacco use, particularly among young people who remain vulnerable to tobacco addiction.
“World No Tobacco Day serves as a reminder that protecting public health is a collective responsibility. We must continue to educate our communities on the dangers of tobacco use and support policies that promote healthier lifestyles and tobacco-free environments,” he stated.
The ACI Director General further stressed that reducing tobacco consumption would not only improve public health outcomes but also contribute to sustainable development, poverty reduction, and environmental protection.
As the world marks this year’s observance, the Arewa Cohesion Initiative calls on citizens to make informed choices, reject tobacco use, and become advocates for healthier communities.
ACI reaffirmed its commitment to supporting awareness campaigns and initiatives that promote public health, social well-being, and sustainable development across Northern Nigeria and the country at large.
Daniel Karlmax
