CAPPA Launches Documentary on Sugary Drinks Dangers

The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) launched a documentary titled "Sweet Poison" on Tuesday in Lagos, focusing on the dangers of sugary drinks and advocating for a higher tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). The documentary aims to expose misconceptions surrounding sugary drinks and their health and environmental impacts, particularly as Nigeria faces a rising incidence of non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.

Akinbod Oluwafemi, CAPPA's Executive Director, noted that sugary drinks have become deeply embedded in Nigerian life, driven by aggressive marketing strategies. The documentary features insights from medical experts, policymakers, and ordinary Nigerians, emphasizing the need for stronger regulations and a higher excise tax on sugary drinks to improve public health.

Ghai Adeolu Adebiyi, a senior advisor on food policy, stressed that the current N10 tax is insufficient and should be allocated to health sector initiatives. The event also featured Dr. Babajid Sahe, who warned about the severe health complications associated with excessive sugar intake.