Senate Passes Landmark Sugar Tax Reform Bill As CAPPA Urges Swift House Approval
As Nigeria grapples with a growing burden of non-communicable diseases, health advocates are intensifying calls for stronger policies aimed at reducing excessive sugar consumption and improving public health outcomes.
Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has applauded the Senate for passing a landmark bill seeking to reform the country’s tax regime on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs), describing the move as a significant step towards protecting the health of millions of Nigerians.
The proposed legislation seeks to replace the current flat excise duty of ₦10 per litre with a percentage-based levy linked to retail prices, while also earmarking part of the generated revenue for health promotion and disease prevention programmes.
CAPPA said the reform reflects a shift towards evidence-based fiscal policies designed to address pressing public health concerns.
The organisation commended the sponsor of the bill, Senator Ipalibo Banigo, for her commitment to advancing health-focused legislation and championing policies that prioritise the wellbeing of Nigerians.
CAPPA’s Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, described the Senate’s action as both courageous and timely, urging the House of Representatives to expedite consideration of the bill to ensure its swift passage and presidential assent.
He noted that Nigeria faces an escalating crisis of non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, obesity and dental conditions, many of which are linked to the excessive consumption of sugary drinks.
According to CAPPA, more than 11 million Nigerians are currently living with diabetes, while nearly one in three deaths in the country is associated with non-communicable diseases.
The organisation argued that the existing sugar tax has had limited impact on consumption patterns and that a price-based levy would align Nigeria with global best practices recommended by the World Health Organisation.
The group also welcomed provisions in the bill that dedicate part of the revenue to strengthening the healthcare sector, while stressing the need for transparency, accountability and public oversight in the management of the funds.
CAPPA maintained that strengthening the SSB tax is not merely a fiscal measure but a life-saving intervention capable of reducing disease burdens, saving lives and securing a healthier future for generations of Nigerians.
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