There’s No Safe Level of Tobacco Use Says Egu, Imo Health Commissioner

Tobacco smoking poses significant health risks to both primary and secondary smokers. Primary smokers are those who consume tobacco products, while secondary smokers are individuals in close proximity to primary smokers and consequently inhale the harmful substance known as nicotine emitted from lit tobacco.

Tobacco smoking is associated with numerous health issues, ranging from respiratory problems to various forms of cancer. Despite this, tobacco products, including cigarettes and shisha, continue to be produced and marketed across countries, territories, and regions.

It is concerning that even those aware of the harmful effects of nicotine continue to smoke. In an effort to make these dangerous products more appealing, manufacturers have adopted new marketing strategies, including enticing packaging. Tobacco products are now available in forms such as flavored candies and lighters, designed to attract consumers.

This is why the theme of this year’s World No Tobacco Day celebration, “Unmasking The Appeal,” is particularly relevant. Tobacco is currently packaged in ways that may deceive young people into purchasing it, and parents may not realize their children are using it even in their presence.

In Imo State, the Ministry of Health and Social Services is actively working to raise awareness among the population and advocate for stricter legislation to curb tobacco use. During a media briefing on Thursday, June 11, 2026, the State Commissioner for Health and Social Services, Dr. Chino Vivian Egu, announced that in addition to raising awareness and strengthening laws, her ministry is providing support services to help smokers overcome their addiction.

Dr. Egu stated that healthcare workers are available at all levels of health care facilities in the state to assist smokers in quitting their addiction. Partnering organizations, such as the Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance (NTCA), are also supporting the state’s campaign efforts.

NTCA officials are currently in the state to assist with this year’s World No Tobacco Day activities. During the media session, Dr. Femi Adebayo, Barr Michael Olaniyan, Dr. Belkuis, Dr. Egu, and Dr. Jane Adiba of the NCDC Unit collectively affirmed that there is no safe level of tobacco smoking, meaning no amount is beneficial to the human body.

Dr. Adebayo explained that some individuals continue to smoke because the harmful effects are not immediate. He recounted the tragic story of a man who developed lung disease and eventually died, not because he smoked, but because his father smoked while driving him and his siblings to school when they were young children.

Barr Olaniyan cautioned against being misled by the attractive packaging of tobacco products and dismissed the manufacturers’ claims as false.

Dr. Belkuis highlighted that smoking is a leading cause of infertility in women and has detrimental effects on pregnancies.

The Health Commissioner urged schools to incorporate anti-smoking programs into their curricula. She emphasized the benefits of quitting smoking, including improved breathing, cessation of coughing, cancer prevention, and heart health. Additionally, Dr. Egu revealed that the state is considering imposing substantial taxes on tobacco sales to make them less accessible to consumers.

While these control measures are commendable, the most effective solution may be to prohibit the manufacturing and sale of tobacco within the state. This approach could significantly reduce the number of individuals inadvertently harming themselves through tobacco consumption..