By Ify Onyekwere
Non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity, have become a global health concern affecting millions worldwide. Like many other countries, Nigeria has witnessed a rapid increase in the prevalence of these diseases, largely linked to unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles. In response to this alarming trend, governments around the world have recognized the urgent need to take action and combat NCDs effectively.
In a significant step towards addressing the issue, the Federal Ministry of Health in Nigeria recently organized a one-day inter-agency capacity-building meeting to discuss the implementation of a sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) tax. The conference, which took place on June 8, brought together key stakeholders from various government agencies, health organizations, and civil society groups.
The meeting, organized in collaboration with the Civil Society Coalition for Poverty Eradication (CISCOPE), aimed to enhance inter-agency coordination and foster a comprehensive understanding of the proposed SSB tax. This tax on beverages with added sugars, including carbonated drinks and juices, is a proven policy tool to reduce consumption and curb the negative health effects associated with excessive sugar intake.
During the meeting, participants engaged in vibrant discussions on the potential benefits of the SSB tax, drawing on successful examples from other countries. The gathering facilitated knowledge-sharing, best practices, and lessons learned, ensuring Nigeria’s approach aligned with global standards. Experts emphasized the importance of designing a well-structured tax policy, accompanied by public awareness campaigns and targeted interventions to promote healthier alternatives.
By implementing the SSB tax, Nigeria aims to achieve multiple objectives simultaneously. Firstly, the tax is expected to generate substantial revenue for the government, which can be channelled towards healthcare infrastructure development, health promotion campaigns, and subsidizing healthier food options. Additionally, the tax is projected to reduce the consumption of sugary beverages, thereby curbing the rising rates of NCDs and their associated economic burden.
While some stakeholders expressed concerns about potential economic implications for the beverage industry, evidence from other countries has shown that such taxes can be implemented without significant negative effects on business or employment rates. In fact, studies indicate that revenue generated from SSB taxes can be reinvested into the economy, contributing to employment growth and the promotion of healthier food production.
The Nigerian government’s commitment to tackling NCDs through the implementation of the SSB tax highlights the country’s dedication to public health and its alignment with global efforts to combat this global health crisis. The inter-agency capacity building meeting serves as a platform for fostering collaboration among stakeholders, streamlining policy implementation, and ensuring effective monitoring and evaluation of the tax’s impact.
Numerous studies have shown that excessive sugar consumption, particularly sugary beverages, significantly increases the risk of developing Non-communicable diseases NCDs. The SSB tax incentivises individuals to choose healthier alternatives, such as water, unsweetened drinks, and natural fruit juices. It also serves as a deterrent for the overconsumption of sugary drinks, especially among vulnerable populations, such as children and adolescents.
The Sweet Dilemma
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), the global average daily sugar intake per person is approximately 17 teaspoons. This far exceeds the recommended intake of added sugars, which is no more than 6 teaspoons per day for adults and even less for children.
One of the most significant consequences of excessive sugar consumption is the alarming rise in obesity rates. A study conducted by the Global Burden of Disease project revealed that over 2.1 billion people, nearly 30% of the global population, were either overweight or obese in 2020. High sugar diets are a major contributing factor to this epidemic, as sugar-laden foods and beverages are often calorie-dense and offer little nutritional value.
Moreover, excessive sugar intake significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A meta-analysis of studies involving over 300,000 participants found that consuming sugary drinks was associated with a 26% increased risk of developing this chronic condition. The impact is particularly pronounced among young people, as high sugar intake in childhood and adolescence can lead to an earlier onset of diabetes and lifelong health complications.
The detrimental effects of excessive sugar consumption extend beyond weight gain and diabetes. Studies have shown a clear link between sugar intake and cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke. Excessive sugar consumption raises blood pressure, promotes inflammation, and contributes to the development of unhealthy blood lipid profiles, all of which increase the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Critics argue that excessive sugar consumption is primarily a result of the prevalence of sugary beverages and processed foods in our diets. Carbonated soft drinks, energy drinks, fruit juices, and pre-packaged snacks often contain alarmingly high amounts of added sugars. These products are aggressively marketed, especially towards children and young adults, exacerbating the issue.
Addressing excessive sugar consumption requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. Governments, food manufacturers, healthcare professionals, and individuals all have vital roles to play. Investing in public education and nutritional programs is crucial to empowering individuals to make healthier choices. Food manufacturers must reformulate their products, reducing sugar content while maintaining taste. And governments should continue to implement policies that promote healthier food environments and support sustainable farming practices.
