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Carbonated Soft Drinks Group of MAN Decries Ongoing Campaign to Lynch Sugar by a Subterfuge Group…As Experts Carpets FG of Misleading Health Justification against Economic Realities

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2 years ago

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AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

Sponsored by: H&H

Barely two weeks after the Sectoral Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria [MAN] raised a discomforting alarm over strong indications that the Federal Government is planning a proposed additional 20 percent Ad-Valorem Excise Tax on the Carbonated Soft Drinks [CSD] segment, the group has once again decried the ongoing emotional campaign to string up the sugar angle by a subterfuge group hurriedly concocted and purportedly sponsored by the government.

The faceless group has been masquerading and trying to use the sugar angle to rationalise an economic virus that may become a pandemic which it intends to unleash on the non-alcoholic beverage industry.

This is believed to be coming in reaction to the multidimensional pressure that has been unleashed on the government by the vehement opposition in response to the proposed regulation by the sectoral group and concerned stakeholders over the last couple of weeks.

Spurred by the vociferous campaigns that have been mounted on the issue, government lobbyist are coming up using an emotional but weak health angle to knock the public outcry. A coalition, the National Action on Sugar Reduction, recently staged what it termed a peaceful display in Abuja urging the government to increase taxes on sugary drinks and invest the revenue into public health.

What one is quick to consider is: Why this group?, What is the interest of the group? It is such that it can be safely concluded that the faceless group is simply the last straw that the government is holding onto in its resolve to go ahead with the proposed primitive and retrogressive economic approach whose greater consequence portends adverse social, political, economic and even health implications for the entire system.

The subterfuge group opine that ‘’soft drink taxes are a ‘‘win’’ for Nigerians, adding that its consumption of sugary drinks is known to be a risk factor for diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart diseases, stroke and cancers.

But in a swift reaction to the coalition’s campaign, the sectoral group have stated that the ongoing campaign to lynch sugar and use it as a poster boy or silver bullet to solve Nigeria’s healthcare problems is, at best misleading. According to the group: ‘’Citizens’ health is a significant responsibility of all governments, and any action to protect citizens’ health is desirable and should be supported. But the false attribution of sugar-related ailments to a single cause or product is wrong.’’

The group further stated that the lobby group that has encouraged the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) to impose higher taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) has used data that do not support their argument for the increases in taxes on sweetened beverages.

‘’Firstly, the group agrees that 70% of citizens’ medical bills in the country are private expenses and do not involve the government. The call for the government to raise taxes to cover these private expenses is perplexing and inconsistent with best global tax practices that place the burden or incidence of tax on a product to cover the cost to the government of treatment of patients that consume the product.’’

Corroborating this position, Mr. Teslim Shitta-Bay, a foremost economic analyst while countering the jaundiced and misleading position put forward by the lobby group argued that, the advocates of the so-called sugar tax have argued that in 2007 Nigerians consumed 9ml per person, and in 2021 or fourteen years after, they consumed 14ml per person representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.46%, which is only slightly higher than the national population growth rate over the period. Nigerians consume 8kg of sugar per person per annum, which is below the prescribed World Health Organisations (WHOs) of 9.1kg per person and is significantly lower than the United Kingdom’s 30kg or the United State of America’s (USA) 46kg per person.

Shitta-Bay also raised greater health concerns of the aftermath of the sugar tax. ‘’Yes, health issue can be connected to economic development but in this case, there is no justification to use health to rationalise simply because the Carbonated Soft Drinks sector has not violated the regulations.

Drawing a similar parallel with the tobacco sector case. The sector also suffered a similar fate f the imminent dangerous trajectory that the Carbonated Soft drinks is been pulled towards.

The regulatory position was such that advertising of tobacco was banned. Meanwhile, the effects of that were that the smokers migrated to other unregulated substances and drugs including tramadol and sundry substances.

No doubt, this only made a messof the health justification been rationalised by the government as this was inadvertently been promoted because users were forced to move from regulated substances which had become a part of their social life at that time to other hard and unregulated drugs due to over regulation.

Similarly, when the cost of carbonated drinks goes higher in view of the reality of the additional Excise Tax, those who consume these drinks will look for alternatives. These alternatives are such that the government cannot control and access their distribution. For instance, the government cannot control Zobo or Kunu. Kunu and Zobo have sugar contents that have not been scientifically subjected to factory tests regarding their sugar contents compared to carbonated soft drinks.

Like it is often, it is always coming with a multiplier effects. Another greater risk is that most of the unregulated substances, for example zobo and kunu are sold at places where government cannot access let alone control. For instance, the over regulation of drinks like gin made it to come in small sachets but its major distribution and sales is at motor parks where drivers indulge same making a mess of the ‘’Don’t drink and drive’’ regulations that was put in place to curb over-indulgence in alcohol and the concomitant effects of drivers coming under the influence of the alcohol and placing their own lives and those of several commuters at risk. But, that is where you find the greatest concentration of Gin and that is one of the effects of over regulation.

Controlling sugar consumption is essential but raising taxes is not the solution. The best way to control sugar consumption is by setting and enforcing regulations around the amount of sugar used in carbonated drinks. In addition, a social awareness programme explaining the consequences of excessive sugar consumption should be made with messages placed on non-alcoholic carbonated drink bottles, like the country’s Chief Medical Officer’s warning on a cigarette pack.

The FGN needs revenue, and rightly so. On a net position, government targets a total of 81 billion in collection with the successful implementation of the proposed additional 20 percent Ad-Valorem Excise Tax , but the N10/per litre tax on Carbonated non-alcoholic drinks has already led to a 16% fall in industry revenue. Given that, Shitta-Bay affirmed that the ugly scenario which would be created will affect the overall economic productivity that government is trying to protect.

He averred that a PwC study shows that the expected revenue government intends to generate from the proposed additional 20 percent Ad-Valorem excise tax is about N81billion, and a cursory look at the reduction in Value Added Tax [VAT], Company Income Tax [CIT], and Personal Income Tax [PIT], there would be about N200 billion unclaimed tax being threatened, which is not good for the economic recovery policy of an emerging market economy like Nigeria.

The meaning is that the government would not meet its desired increased net revenue target from the sector in 2022/2023.

In essence, what this portends for the system is such that a position known as the Cobra effect is forced on the government such that its solution is worse than the original problem.

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Union Bank Rewards Customers with Motorcycles, Cash Prizes in 3rd Save and Win Palli Promo 4 Monthly Draw

Published

3 days ago

on

April 22, 2025

By

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

Union Bank Rewards Customers with Motorcycles, Cash Prizes in 3rd Save and Win Palli Promo 4 Monthly Draw

Union Bank of Nigeria has rewarded another set of customers in the ongoing Save and Win Palli Promo 4 campaign. Six lucky customers each won a brand-new motorcycle, and 120 additional winners won cash prizes.


The third monthly hybrid live draws were transparently conducted at the Bank’s Sabo, Yaba Branch in Lagos under the supervision of relevant regulatory institutions.

For integrity purposes, some of the winners were contacted to congratulate and remind them that the Bank will never call to request or confirm their confidential banking details such as BVN, date of birth, pins, or passwords.


Save & Win Palli Promo 4 is a nationwide campaign designed to reward both new and existing customers with cash prizes and other exciting gifts worth N131,000,000.

This initiative aims to support them in achieving their savings goals while getting rewarded at the same time.


To stand a chance to win, customers can continue to top up their savings in multiples of N10,000 or more and perform a minimum of five transactions a month to increase their chances of winning in the draws.

This promo is open to new and existing savings and current account holders.
Prospective customers can download the UnionMobile app on their smartphones to open accounts or walk into any Union Bank branch. Returning customers can call the 24-hour Contact Centre on 07007007000 or visit any Union Bank branch nationwide to reactivate dormant accounts.

About Union Bank Plc:
Established in 1917 and listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1971, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc. is a household name and one of Nigeria’s long-standing and most respected financial institutions.

The Bank is a trusted and recognisable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria.

The Bank currently offers a variety of banking services to both individual and corporate clients, including current, savings, and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing, and trade finance.

The Bank also offers customers convenient electronic banking channels and products, including Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Cards, ATMs, and POS Systems.


More information can be found at: www.unionbankng.com
Media Enquiries:
Favour Ayeni
+234 0201 2716800
Email: mediarelations@unionbankng.com

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Zuriel Oduwole, Sterling One Foundation, Sanwo-Olu Harp on Gender Equality and Youth Empowerment

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1 month ago

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March 20, 2025

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Zuriel Oduwole, Sterling One Foundation, Sanwo-Olu Harp on Gender Equality and Youth Empowerment

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

Nobel Peace Prize nominee Zuriel Oduwole and Sterling One Foundation have emphasized the need for gender equality and youth empowerment during a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Governor’s Office, where discussions focused on sustained action in creating opportunities for young leaders.

L-R: Moyo Akinyosoye, Business Executive, Institutional Banking, Sterling Bank; Zuriel Oduwole, Youth Envoy/Nobel Peace Prize Nominee; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor, Lagos State; Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO, Sterling One Foundation; and Ifeoluwa Elegbede, Communication Lead, Sterling One Foundation, during a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Governor’s Office to discuss youth empowerment, gender equality, and the need for sustained action in creating opportunities for young leaders.

At just 22 years old, Oduwole is the youngest Nigerian ever nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize and the first to be recognized in this category. Her global advocacy in education, gender equality, and youth inclusion has influenced policies and engaged key decision-makers across multiple countries.

Sterling One Foundation, through its investment in social impact across critical sectors, has mainstreamed gender equality and women’s empowerment across all its initiatives, ensuring that young women and girls have access to the resources, platforms, and opportunities needed to thrive.

Speaking on the Foundation’s commitment to gender equality and women empowerment, Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO, Sterling One Foundation, highlighted the importance of telling African stories and driving impact through intentional programming, while also reflecting on this year’s International Women’s Day theme, Accelerate Action.
“At Sterling One Foundation, we are intentional about telling African stories that reflect the strength and potential of our people. This is evident in our focus areas and programming, where we have deliberately mainstreamed gender equality and women’s empowerment.

This aligns with the call to ‘Accelerate Action’ this International Women’s Day, reinforcing the urgency of breaking barriers for women and girls.

We are proud of Zuriel Oduwole for amplifying these values on the global stage, and we remain committed to creating an environment where young changemakers, especially women and girls, have the support and opportunities they need to lead and succeed.”

During the visit, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recognized Oduwole’s contributions and her historic Nobel Peace Prize nomination, describing it as a milestone for Nigeria and the African continent.

“This achievement reflects the resilience and determination of our people. In the past five years, we have faced COVID-19, economic challenges, and instability, yet we have continued to create opportunities for young Nigerians in technology, finance, and entertainment.

The THEMES Plus agenda reinforces our commitment to inclusion and youth empowerment. Lagos is proud to support Zuriel’s journey and work with the Sterling One Foundation to expand opportunities for the next generation.”

Oduwole also emphasized the power of storytelling in driving social change:
“I have seen the power of storytelling in changing perceptions and opening doors for young people. When we share our stories, we inspire action. I am grateful to our partners for amplifying young voices and creating opportunities that make a real difference.”

Her remarks highlight the role of storytelling in influencing narratives that drive meaningful change. By amplifying diverse voices and ensuring that young people, especially women and girls, have platforms to be heard, storytelling becomes a powerful tool for influencing policies, shifting mindsets, and creating lasting impact in communities. The need for sustained efforts to support and invest in these platforms has never been more critical.

The Sterling One Foundation remains committed to driving sustainable change through strategic interventions that create lasting impact in gender equality, youth empowerment, and About Sterling One Foundation.
Sterling One Foundation (SOF) is a registered non-profit focused on tackling the root causes of poverty in Nigeria, and Africa through interventions and social impact programmes across five critical sectors namely: climate action, health, education and youth development, gender equality and empowerment, and food security. The Foundation’s programmes adopt a central theme of prioritizing partnerships for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For more information visit onefoundation.ng

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Nigeria Takes Bold Steps to Bridge the Gender Digital Divide at the United Nations CSW69

Published

1 month ago

on

March 20, 2025

By

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

n a resounding commitment to bridging gender digital divide, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs (FMWA), has taken a decisive step toward closing the gender digital divide by presenting the National Gender Digital Inclusion Strategy (NGDIS) at the United Nations 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69).

  1. Esther Eghobamien-Mshelis – President of UN CEDAW
  2. ⁠Iklima Musa – Special Assistant to the Director General of NITDA
  3. ⁠Noimot Salako – Deputy Governor Ogun state
  4. ⁠Maryam Ciroma – former minster of women affairs
  5. ⁠Imaan Sulaiman- Minister of Women Affairs
  6. ⁠Josephine Anenih – former Minister of women affairs
  7. ⁠Dr Maryam Keshinro – Permanent Secretary – Ministry of Women Affairs

Themed “Digital Harmony: Advancing Gender Inclusion by Empowering Women and Children for a Secure Digital Future,” the high-level event reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to fostering equitable access to digital technology, online safety, and economic empowerment for women and children.

Speaking at the event, Iklima Musa Salihu, Special Assistant to the Director General on Strategic Partnerships, presented the strategy, emphasizing NITDA’s role in driving digital transformation and creating opportunities for women and girls to actively participate in the digital economy. The NGDIS, developed in alignment with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5 and 8, seeks to remove barriers to digital inclusion by expanding access to digital skills training, infrastructure, and mentorship opportunities for women and girls. The Director General of NITDA Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE as represented by the SA, in his special remarks reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s digital transformation is inclusive and equitable, highlighting NGDIS as a game-changer in achieving gender parity in the digital space. He noted that the framework prioritizes digital literacy, entrepreneurship, safety, and gender-responsive policies to accelerate women’s participation in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

DG, NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, represented by Mrs Iklima Musa Salihu, SA to the DG on Strategic Partnerships

The NGDIS is built on five core pillars that will drive women’s access, participation, and leadership in the digital ecosystem. It seeks to expand digital literacy and skills by ensuring at least 40% female participation in all national training initiatives. Recognizing the role of women in Nigeria’s innovation and entrepreneurship landscape, the strategy emphasizes access to funding, mentorship, and technical assistance for female-led startups, leveraging the Nigeria Startup Act to increase financial and institutional support for women in the tech ecosystem. With 58% of young women globally experiencing online harassment, the NGDIS prioritizes online safety and cybersecurity awareness.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Honourable Imaan Sulaiman, FSI, underscored the urgent need for action in tackling gender disparities in digital access. She revealed alarming statistics that demonstrate the stark reality of the digital divide in Nigeria, highlighting that 68% of Nigerian women do not own smartphones, making it difficult for them to access online services and economic opportunities. She stressed that this divide extends beyond access, as women and children face significant online risks, including cyber harassment, digital gender-based violence, and exclusion from the rapidly growing tech-driven economy.

She called for the swift implementation of the National Gender Digital Inclusion Strategy (NGDIS) 2024-2027, which seeks to remove the structural barriers that prevent women from fully engaging in the digital economy. She emphasized the need for strong legal frameworks that would accelerate action in promoting digital literacy, providing safe online spaces, and empowering women to thrive in technology-driven industries. She reaffirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is committed to creating an inclusive digital future where no woman or child is left behind. She urged all stakeholders to work together to transform digital access and security for women and children, making technology a tool for empowerment rather than exclusion.

As the world embraces the Fourth Industrial Revolution, NITDA in collaboration with stakeholders is taking bold and strategic steps to ensure that women and girls are not only participants but also leaders in the digital transformation journey. The National Gender Digital Inclusion Strategy is a blueprint for action, providing a clear framework for accelerating digital inclusion, fostering entrepreneurship, and strengthening online safety for Nigerian women and children. The side event at CSW69 ended with a resounding call to action, urging stakeholders to work collectively to bridge the gender digital divide, expand opportunities for women in technology, and create a safe, inclusive, and thriving digital ecosystem for

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