Public Awareness, Compliance and Enforcement of the National Tobacco Control Act, 2015: A Critical Review (2015–2025)

Background: Nigeria enacted the National Tobacco Control Act (NTCA) in 2015 (effective 2017) to implement WHO FCTC provisions on smoke-free places, packaging, advertising bans, and sales restrictions. While the legislation is comprehensive, its effectiveness depends on public awareness, stakeholder compliance, and government enforcement. Objective: To review public awareness, vendor and industry compliance, and enforcement activities of the NTCA in Nigeria from 2015 to 2025. Methods: We conducted a narrative review of literature (2015-2025) in PubMed, Google Scholar, conference proceedings, and NGO reports using terms like “Nigeria tobacco control act awareness,” “NTCA enforcement,” “tobacco compliance Nigeria,” etc. Relevant peer-reviewed articles, government documents, and civil society reports were synthesized thematically. Results: Section 38 of the NTCA mandates nationwide education campaigns, and outreach materials were developed in 2018. However, baseline awareness has remained low; a 2013 Osun State study found only 38% of adults were aware of any smoking ban. Compliance is poor; many retailers ignore restrictions, selling single sticks or to minors. A 2023 survey showed that only 77% of cigarette packs met health warning rules, with just 31% complying with the minimum size. Enforcement has been weak: civil society notes that although NTCA 2015 and related regulations exist, implementation has been inadequate. Funding for the Tobacco Control Fund and capacity of enforcement agencies remain limited. Conclusion: While Nigeria has a strong legal framework through the NTCA, public knowledge, vendor compliance, and enforcement remains inadequate. Improved public education, routine monitoring, better funding, and multi-sectoral action are needed to fully achieve the Act’s goals.