Mr. Akinbode Oluwafemi, the Executive Director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), has called on journalists to enhance discussions regarding sugary beverages and their impact on public health and Nigeria’s economic future. He made this statement during his opening remarks at a two-day journalism training on the taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) and industry influence, held in Enugu, attracting journalists from the five South-East states. He emphasized that Nigeria is at a pivotal point concerning public health and economic challenges. He noted, “We are witnessing a concerning increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, which were once rare but are now widespread across various age groups and income levels. Our healthcare facilities are overwhelmed, families are facing significant healthcare expenses, and our productivity is declining. Currently, non-communicable diseases contribute to about 30% of annual deaths in Nigeria, and over 75% of global fatalities, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).” What is driving this crisis? “There is an overwhelming number of ultra-processed food items (UFPs), particularly sugary beverages that pretend to be refreshing but actually provide only negative effects.” The Executive Director of CAPPA voiced concerns about the aggressive sugary drinks industry, which seeks to profit from unhealthy diets while spreading misinformation and lobbying against essential policies like the SSB tax. He emphasized that the SSB tax serves as a public health initiative that places a fee on sugary beverages to deter over-consumption, decrease sugar-related illnesses, and raise funds for health initiatives. In Nigeria, this tax was established in 2021 at a rate of N203 per litre for sugar-sweetened, non-alcoholic, and carbonated drinks. He remarked that although Nigeria’s current tax of N10 per litre is well-meaning, it has proven ineffective since its inception. What is the significance of this? “The N10 per litre tax intended to raise retail prices and lower the consumption of sugary beverages was insufficient to create a noticeable effect. At that time, one litre corresponded to about three bottles of the typical 33cl soft drink.” At that time, each bottle was priced at around N150. The increase of N10 per litre amounts to roughly an additional N3 per bottle, which is hardly perceivable to consumers and insufficient to alter their purchasing patterns. Currently, a 33cl bottle frequently retails for N300 or higher, but the tax remains unchanged at N10 per litre, still equating to only N3 per bottle. This minimal charge fails to encourage consumers to rethink their options or motivate companies to adjust the sugar levels in their products.
