Nigeria has made history as the first West African country to introduce a Sugar-Sweetened Beverage (SSB) Tax, a groundbreaking move aimed at tackling the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDS) such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

This landmark policy, implemented through the 2021 Nigeria Finance Act and operational since July 2022, imposes a 10 Naira per litre tax on non-alcoholic, carbonated, and sweetened beverages. The initiative represents a bold step in public health advocacy, with Joy Amafah, the Nigeria Coordinator for the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), lauded as the driving force behind this unprecedented achievement.

This tax marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s approach to public health, aligning fiscal policies with health objectives to curb the consumption of sugary drinks. Experts estimate that the tax has the potential to reduce sugary beverage consumption by 15-20%, improve public health, and save the government millions in healthcare costs associated with NCDs annually. With Nigeria's NCD burden steadily increasing, this policy provides a framework for other African countries to emulate.

“This is a historic moment for public health in West Africa,” said Dr Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA). “The leadership of Joy Amafah and the Global Health Advocacy Incubator in championing this initiative has set a new standard for health advocacy on the continent. They have shown us how strategic advocacy can lead to meaningful change.”

Joy Amafah’s strategic vision and relentless advocacy have been pivotal to the success of this campaign. Collaborating with key partners such as CAPPA and Gatefield Foundation, Amafah masterminded a multi-faceted strategy that combined legal groundwork, stakeholder engagement, and media advocacy. Her efforts ensured that the SSB tax not only became law but also gained public and governmental support.

“Our work is not just about imposing a tax,” Amafah explained. “It’s about creating a healthier Nigeria, raising awareness about the dangers of sugary drinks, and demonstrating that fiscal policies can drive positive public health outcomes.”

Public health experts and policymakers have praised the SSB tax as a bold and necessary measure. Prof. Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, described the policy as a "game-changer for Nigeria's human capital development," emphasising its potential to improve the nutrition and health of future generations.

“This is not just about raising revenue; it’s about saving lives,” said Dr. Bernard Kofi Asare, Head of Public Health Policy at ECOWAS. “Nigeria has set an example for the region, and Joy Amafah’s leadership has been instrumental in achieving this milestone.”

Dr. Adeolu Adebiyi, Senior Regional Advisor for Africa at GHAI, added, “The strategic approach taken by GHAI under Joy Amafah’s coordination is exemplary. By integrating public health advocacy with fiscal policy, Nigeria has shown how countries can address NCDs effectively and sustainably.”

Under Amafah’s guidance, the SSB Tax Campaign is not stopping at the current levy. Plans are underway to increase the tax and earmark revenues for public health initiatives. A strategic roadmap developed by GHAI and its partners outlines ambitious goals, including the introduction of pro-health legislation and amendments to the National Health Act by 2026. “These steps will ensure that the SSB tax remains a sustainable public health tool,” said Fidelis Obaniyi, Research Associate at the Centre for the Study of Economies of Africa (CSEA). “By linking tax revenue to health infrastructure improvements, Nigeria can build a healthier future for its citizens.”

A critical component of the campaign has been its focus on public awareness. Through partnerships with CAPPA, GHAI has organised capacity-building events, media briefings, and webinars, reaching diverse audiences. In July 2024, a two-day capacity-building event brought together stakeholders to discuss the economic and health benefits of the tax, emphasising the importance of media in driving awareness.

The efforts have already yielded significant results. A March 2024 study by CAPPA showed a positive shift in public opinion, with over 60% of Nigerians supporting the tax and acknowledging its role in reducing sugary drink consumption.

A Ripple Effect Across West Africa

Nigeria’s success with the SSB tax is expected to inspire similar initiatives across the ECOWAS region. Already, dialogues are underway in countries like Ghana and Senegal to explore the introduction of similar taxes.

“This is more than just a Nigerian victory; it’s a win for Africa,” said Dr. Nana Boateng, a Ghanaian nutritionist. “The leadership shown by Joy Amafah and GHAI proves that public health advocacy, when done right, can transform lives.”

The Road Ahead

As Nigeria continues to implement and expand the SSB tax, Joy Amafah and GHAI remain committed to ensuring its success. By engaging stakeholders, advocating for increased taxes, and linking revenues to health programs, they aim to solidify the policy’s impact on Nigeria’s health and economy.

With the SSB tax already reducing sugary drink consumption and raising funds for health infrastructure, Nigeria has set a precedent for public health advocacy in Africa. Thanks to the leadership of Joy Amafah and the unwavering support of GHAI, the country is paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.

“This is just the beginning,” Amafah remarked. “Together, we can build a healthier Africa, one policy at a time.”