In light of the recent World Diabetes Day, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called upon Nigeria’s federal and state governments to intensify their financial commitment to combating diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The call follows growing concerns over the country's rising diabetes rates and the strain they place on the healthcare system.
In a statement issued by Robert Egbe, Media and Communication Officer, CAPPA, the organizations appeal includes a demand for increased budgetary allocation to the health sector and a reassessment of the current N10 per litre excise duty on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), which are linked to diabetes.
Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of CAPPA, highlighted the severity of the issue, noting that approximately 11.2 million Nigerians, or 1 in 17 adults, currently live with diabetes.
"This health crisis goes beyond the medical field," Oluwafemi stated, "affecting Nigeria's social and economic stability," he added.
According to CAPPA, the economic challenges facing Nigeria, combined with unhealthy food environments, are exacerbating the nation's diabetes crisis.
The organization referenced recommendations from the World Health Organization and UNICEF, emphasizing that policies like the SSB tax are vital in discouraging unhealthy dietary habits and safeguarding public health.
This year’s World Diabetes Day, themed ‘Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,’ serves as a reminder of the urgent need for action.
CAPPA has urged local authorities to implement effective food policies to ensure that Nigerians have access to healthier diets.
Additionally, they propose that funds generated from the SSB tax be directed towards enhancing healthcare infrastructure and reducing the cost of diabetes management.
The non-profit organization stresses that addressing the diabetes burden requires a multi-sectoral approach and a firm financial commitment from the government to create a healthier and more resilient society.
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