Smoking in Nigeria: is it time for a rethink?

In many modern day societies, smoking tobacco is an accepted habit with adults of all age groups and both sexes being able to smoke. This practice used to be socially acceptable in Europe and the United States but is less so now. Laws have been passed in some American states restricting or banning smoking, and people can no longer smoke in public places like bars, restaurants, and clubs. In Africa, similar laws that are supposed to be in effect have remained on paper and little restricts where people can or cannot smoke.

Nigeria faces many problems in dealing with the consequences of smoking. It is currently one of the most heavily populated countries in the developing world, with an estimated population of 100 million. Public health facilities are scarce and the few that are available are overstretched. As yet, no schemes to expand health care are in place and appreciable improvements cannot be reasonably expected within the near future.

Additionally, there is no viable social health insurance scheme. People have to pay for the care and attention they require during illness from personal or family savings and quite often those who cannot afford care are left with little or no …