Chukwuemeka Ubaka, Imo Commissioner for Health, Secondary and Tertiary Healthcare Management, has called for a significant increase in the tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs).

He believes this measure will help address the rising cases of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria.

Mr Ubaka made the call on Tuesday while delivering the annual lecture series at the Dora Akunyili College of Pharmacy, Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo.

The lecture, “Sip Smart, Live Long: Why Taxing Sugary Drinks Makes Sense” highlighted the negative impact of excessive sugar consumption on public health.

The commissioner, a pharmacist, emphasised that high sugar intake was driving a health crisis, contributing to soaring healthcare costs and pushing millions of Africans into poverty.

“Africa has the highest prevalence and incidence of NCDs globally, and Nigeria remains the largest consumer of sugar-sweetened beverages in Africa,” he stated.

He added that the link between excessive sugar intake and diseases such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and cancer could not be ignored.

While Nigeria introduced a N10 per litre SSB tax under the Finance Act of 2021, Mr Ubaka argued that this measure was insufficient to drive meaningful change.

He proposed a 20 per cent ad valorem tax, which would be based on the value of the beverage rather than just its volume. “Global evidence has shown that SSB taxes work.

“Countries with stronger sugar taxes have recorded reductions in obesity rates and sugar-related illnesses by as much as 50–70 per cent.”

Mr Ubaka also addressed misconceptions that SSB taxation would negatively impact low-income households.

The commissioner explained that the policy would benefit poorer communities, which were more vulnerable to NCDs, by reducing their consumption of sugary drinks.

He urged the government to ensure transparency in tax revenues, suggesting that the funds should be directed toward public health programmes, awareness campaigns, and industry incentives to promote healthier beverage options.

In his opening remarks, Lawrence Ezemonye, vice chancellor of the university, stressed the important role of pharmacy in improving public health, safety, and well-being.

He noted that the lecture focused on exploring strategies for improving public health, reducing healthcare costs, and generating government revenue.

The commissioner also lauded the achievements of the university’s College of Pharmacy in research and innovations, acknowledging the success of its graduates across various fields.

(NAN)