Ekiti Government bans tobacco smoking in private and public places to protect public health
In a decisive move to safeguard public health and challenge the influence of the global tobacco industry, the Ekiti State Government (EKSG) on Friday, May 30, announced a comprehensive ban on tobacco smoking in both private and public spaces across the state capital, Ado-Ekiti.
The announcement was made during the flag-off event of World No Tobacco Day 2025, themed “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing the Tobacco Industry’s Tactics”, held in partnership with Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA).
Speaking at the event, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Filani Oyebanji—represented by Permanent Secretary Olusola Gbenga-Igotun—described the ban as a proactive and protective measure.
“This step is aimed at reducing tobacco-related diseases and protecting the overall well-being of residents,” he said.
Dr. Oyebanji condemned the manipulative strategies of the tobacco industry, which he said have long preyed on young people through seductive advertising, flavored products, and misleading branding of nicotine alternatives like vapes and e-cigarettes.
“For decades, the tobacco industry has thrived on a simple but insidious tactic—appeal.
They have masked the harsh realities of addiction and disease behind glossy advertisements, celebrity endorsements, flavored products, and targeted marketing.Their goal is to hook new users while retaining the loyalty of the addicted.”
He warned that even “safer” alternatives such as heated tobacco devices are not without risks, and emphasized the need for stricter regulations, effective cessation programs, and widespread education.
A community-wide health campaign
Dr. Oyebanji added that the state government plans to extend the smoke-free initiative to other local government areas, aiming for broad, statewide impact.
“Today, we must commit ourselves to unmasking these tactics and advocating for truth.
We must empower communities with accurate information, strengthen regulations to close loopholes, and support those on the journey to quit tobacco use.”
CAPPA and local authorities throw weight behind the move
Oluwafemi Akinbode, Executive Director of CAPPA, commended the Ekiti State Government for aligning with global public health standards and launching the Smoke-Free Ekiti Project.
“This initiative demonstrates strong political will and a strategic commitment to shielding non-smokers from secondhand smoke, shifting social norms around tobacco use, and easing long-term healthcare burdens on the state,” Akinbode said.
Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Bosun Osaloni, praised the collaboration between government and civil society, pledging full support for enforcement. He assured the public that violators of the smoking ban would be penalized in accordance with new regulatory frameworks.
