The Ekiti state government has banned tobacco smoking in both private and public gatherings across the 16 local government areas in the state.
The declaration was made on Friday in Ado-Ekiti, during the commemoration of ‘World No Tobacco Day 2025’, in partnership with Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) themed: ‘Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing the Tobacco Industry’s Tactics’.
Speaking with journalists, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Filani Oyebanji, said the ban is a proactive step toward protecting the health and well-being of residents and reducing tobacco-related diseases.
Dr. Oyebanji, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, explained that tobacco use contributes significantly to social vices and health problems, highlighting the need for intensified awareness, stronger regulations and effective cessation programs.
The Executive Director of CAPPA, Executive Director, Oluwafemi Akinbode, said the initiative reflects not only a strong political will within Ekiti State but also a strategic alignment with global public health standards.
He emphasised that the ‘Smoke-Free Ekiti Project’ is crucial for shielding non-smokers from secondhand smoke, shifting social norms around tobacco use and easing the long-term healthcare burden on the state.
The Chairman of Ado-Ekiti Local Government, Bosun Osaloni commended the state government and CAPPA for their efforts with a pledge to support the enforcement of regulations, including the implementation of laws to penalize violators of the smoking ban.