FG Urged to Resist Industry Pressure, Strengthen SSB Tax
Tax
Samuel Mobolaji
The National Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSB) Tax Coalition has called on the federal government to stand firm against industry pressure and fully implement the proposed N130/litre tax on sugary drinks.
The Coalition, comprising over 30 NGOs and public health professionals, accused beverage companies of prioritising profits over public health and urged the government to enact a sustainable legal framework for the SSB tax, with clear timelines to meet the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommended 20 per cent retail price increase.
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Emphasising the need for transparency, the Coalition demanded independent oversight to prevent corruption and ensure that tax revenues are directed toward health interventions.
“With billions already collected, the government must strengthen implementation, enforce compliance, and consider increasing the tax to maximise its impact,” the Coalition stated.
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