CISLAC, Bauchi Government Collaborate on Tobacco Regulation

By Paul Orude, Bauchi

The Bauchi State Government has taken steps toward developing a comprehensive legal framework to regulate tobacco use, as part of efforts to promote good governance and safeguard public health.

In a move that signals stronger political will, the state’s Ministries of Housing and Environment, and Health and Social Welfare, have pledged to partner with the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) to strengthen tobacco control and regulation through policy reforms and stakeholder engagement.

During a courtesy visit by CISLAC officials to his office, the Commissioner for Housing and Environment, Hon. Danlami Kawule, described unregulated public smoking as both an environmental and social menace.

He stressed the need for a robust law to enforce control measures and ensure compliance.

Kawule, a former Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, disclosed plans to convene a multi-stakeholder public hearing that will bring together traditional rulers, faith-based groups, youth representatives, and government agencies to deliberate on tobacco control legislation for the state.

Similarly, the Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Sani Mohammed Dambam, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Dauda Yakubu Mahmoud, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to reducing tobacco-related harm through evidence-based policies and public sensitization.

“This partnership will not only improve health outcomes but also strengthen accountability in tobacco regulation,” Dambam said.

CISLAC’s Senior Programme Officer, Solomon Adoga, who led the delegation, explained that the engagement was part of the Tobacco Tax in Africa Project, an initiative supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation through Tax Justice Africa aimed at reducing the affordability and accessibility of tobacco products.

Adoga said Bauchi’s proactive stance offers an opportunity for other states to emulate by integrating tobacco control into governance and fiscal policies.

“We are encouraged by the state’s commitment,” he noted. “Strong subnational action is key to driving reforms that save lives and build healthier communities.”

Adoga was accompanied by CISLAC’s Senior Finance and Administration Officer, Mohammed Murtala, and a team of media practitioners during the advocacy visit.