THE JOINT COMMITTEE ON FINANCE, CUSTOM & EXCISE HOSTED A ONE DAY PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 21 (3) OF THE CUSTOMS, EXCISE TARIFTS, etc (CONSOLIDATION) ACT, THE PROPOSED BILL AIMS TO REPLACE THE FIXED ₦10 PER LITRE EXCISE DUTY ON NON-ALCOHOLIC, CARBONATED SUGAR-SWEETENED BEVERAGES WITH A PERCENT LEVY PER LITRE OF THE RETAIL PRICE.
A major step toward improving public health and boosting national revenue was taken as senators gathered to deliberate on the proposed amendment to the excise duty on sugary drinks. The bill, sponsored by Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo (Rivers West), seeks to replace the flat ₦10 per litre charge with a percentage-based levy tied to the retail price of sugar-sweetened beverages.
This move offers two major national benefits:
A percentage-based levy is expected to generate more sustainable revenue for government-led health promotion and disease prevention initiatives. With rising healthcare costs and increasing cases of lifestyle-related illnesses, this additional funding could play a crucial role in strengthening community health systems and supporting long-term wellness programs.
At the meeting, Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and Senator Binos Dauda Yaroe, Chairman of the Senate Committee on States and Local Governments, joined other distinguished senators to examine the bill’s implications and benefits for Nigerians.
Their participation underscores the Senate’s commitment to shaping policies that improve public health, enhance revenue generation, and support the overall wellbeing of citizens.
If passed, this bill will not only strengthen national health outcomes but also reflect Nigeria’s growing resolve to prioritize preventive healthcare and responsible consumption.
