The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) is calling for a significant rise in the tax on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) in Nigeria, proposing an increase from N10 to N130 per litre.
During the public presentation of the “Potential Fiscal and Public Health Effects of SSB tax in Nigeria” simulation study in Abuja, Akinbode Oluwafemi, the Executive Director of CAPPA, emphasized the necessity of this adjustment. He highlighted the pressing concerns surrounding public health and the detrimental impact of excessive consumption of SSBs on both health and the economy.
Oluwafemi pointed out that the introduction of the N10/litre Excise Duty on SSBs in 2021 was initially applauded as a measure to promote public health. However, considering the alarming rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) alongside increased consumption of unhealthy products like SSBs, alcohol, and tobacco, a reevaluation of the tax structure is imperative.
The group emphasized the link between unhealthy diet habits and the financial strain on individuals due to escalating health costs. With a large portion of the Nigerian population bearing the burden of healthcare expenses out-of-pocket, CAPPA stresses the urgency of implementing policies that discourage consumption of products contributing to NCDs.
Advocating for a revision of the SSB tax in alignment with inflation rates, Oluwafemi highlighted the need for a flexible framework that adjusts the tax accordingly. Proposing a minimum of N130/litre, the group believes such a change would lead to a substantial reduction in SSB consumption, subsequently curbing diet-related diseases in the country.
Amid concerns raised by stakeholders prioritizing profit margins over public health interests, CAPPA remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being of the populace. Oluwafemi urged the government to consider allocating a significant portion of the SSB tax revenue to public health initiatives, emphasizing the potential benefits for national health outcomes and productivity.
In the face of opposition from vested interests within the SSB industry, CAPPA urges policymakers to heed the call for a revised SSB tax structure, citing the compelling evidence presented in the simulation study as a basis for advancing public health agendas in Nigeria.
