Unmasking the Appeal: Experts Expose Tobacco Industry’s Deadly Tactics on Africa’s Youth at World No Tobacco Day Discussion
Unmasking the Appeal: Experts Expose Tobacco Industry’s Deadly Tactics on Africa’s Youth at World No Tobacco Day Discussion Health experts, journalists and advocates from across Africa gathered for a special webinar themed “Ubuntu: Unmasking the Appeal, Exposing Tobacco Industry Tactics” organised by Renevlyn Development Initiative to mark World No Tobacco Day 2025. The event spotlighted how the tobacco industry continues to target young Africans through deceptive digital marketing and covert partnerships. The Digital Trap: Social Media as a Gateway to Addiction Speaking on findings from Nigeria, UK-based tobacco expert Oluchi Joy Robert revealed how the industry exploits digital platforms to hook young people. “According to the United Nations Population Fund, over 30% of Nigeria’s population are aged between 10 and 24. The tobacco industry knows this and has shifted their activities online. They have a 40% presence on Facebook, run influencer campaigns on Twit...