By Babatunde Tiamiyu
The Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria (TBI) has called for strengthened implementation of the Oyo State Tobacco Control Law and the establishment of sustainable funding mechanisms during an advocacy visit to the Oyo State Ministry of Health.
Speaking during the visit, TBI’s Executive Director, Dare Olagoke-Adaramoye, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to advancing public health initiatives in Oyo State.
He explained that TBI has been partnering with UNICEF since 2022 to combat Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and expanded its focus in 2025 to join the global tobacco control movement as part of its broader community mobilisation and sustainable funding advocacy efforts.
Dr. Adaramoye noted that TBI’s interventions are designed to complement government efforts. Citing research that links tobacco use to nearly 80 per cent of the burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), he stressed the urgent need for effective regulation and enforcement. While acknowledging that a total ban on tobacco may not be feasible, he emphasised that stronger control measures are critical to safeguarding public health.
He expressed concern that the Oyo State Tobacco Control Law, enacted in 2016, is not readily accessible online and has recorded minimal implementation since its passage. TBI therefore urged the Ministry to make the law publicly available and fully operational to enhance transparency and enforcement.
The Executive Director also advocated the creation of a dedicated budget line for tobacco control activities, underscoring that sustainable funding is essential for enforcement, public awareness campaigns, inter-agency coordination, and long-term impact. TBI disclosed plans to engage the Ministry of Budget to promote a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to tobacco control in the state.
Dr. Adaramoye commended the Ministry for the warm reception and pledged TBI’s support for the forthcoming inauguration of the Technical Working Group (TWG) and its subsequent activities. He also promised to provide a simplified version of the Tobacco Control Law to boost public awareness and accessibility.
Responding, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, who was represented by the Director of Public Health, Babatunde Akintunde, described the visit as timely and strategic. He commended TBI for spotlighting tobacco control financing, an area he noted often attracts limited partner interest describing the engagement as an eye-opener for the Ministry.
He further revealed that a multi-sectoral Technical Working Group (TWG) on tobacco control is scheduled to be inaugurated in the second week of April, adding that the Ministry is actively seeking credible partners to support the initiative and welcomed TBI’s readiness to collaborate.
Dr. Akintunde also recommended further research into emerging tobacco-related products such as e-cigarettes and shisha, alongside the development of a robust local database on Non-Communicable Diseases to strengthen evidence-based decision-making. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing tobacco control efforts and protecting residents from the harmful effects of tobacco use.
The advocacy visit marks a renewed drive for stronger collaboration between TBI and the Oyo State Ministry of Health towards improved implementation, dedicated funding, and a healthier, smoke-free Oyo State.
