UN Body to Host School Debate against Tobacco, Nicotine Risks

As part of a sustained commitment to educate children against the danger and risks of tobacco and nicotine consumption, the United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNA-Nigeria) organised debate competition for secondary schools has gathered momentum with the Enugu centre ongoing.

The President of the association, Prof. Oluremi Olutimo, who gave insight to the competition during the 2^nd edition of the UNA-Nigeria World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) 2025 Debate Competition in Lagos, said the theme of the event: ‘Empowering the Next Generation to Stand Against Tobacco’ underscores the objective.    

Olutimo said that UNA-Nigeria decided to organise the competition to create awareness and curb the menace which was spreading like a pandemic in the society; and schools were not free from it.

He said the participating schools were from both public and private schools across the six education districts in Lagos and Ogun states.

The four finalists in the debate competition held in Lagos were Supreme Education Foundation Schools, Magodo, Ikeja; Ikeja High School, Ikeja; Wellspring College, IsheriIkosi, and Peaceville International Academy, Redemption Camp, Ogun state.

Olutimo said all the schools were brilliantly exceptional as they showed depth of their research, presentation skills and knowledge of the topics; and how important the topic was to them.

He said, “The debate is currently ongoing in Enugu State and this is the first time the event is being held outside Lagos State; and the reasons for this initiative are not limited to ban on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship.

“This is especially targeted at youths, raising awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine products; and prevention through education, particularly in schools.

“It is also aimed at stopping the next generation from becoming addicted, give support for tobacco-free environments, including schools, to protect non smokers and promote healthy lifestyles.