Potential determinant factors of electronic cigarette regulation in Nigeria: qualitative interview of potential...

The World Health Organisation's (WHO) 2021 report on the global tobacco epidemic highlighted dangers of e-cigarettes to youth and stated that countries without e-cigarette regulations leave themselves particularly vulnerable to the activities of tobacco and related industries. Nigeria, with a large proportion of young people, is now considering regulating e-cigarettes. This qualitative study aimed to provide insight into the factors that could influence such regulation.

Three participants were recruited using purposive sampling and interviewed as representatives of potential Nigerian e-cigarette regulators. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Five factors that could influence e-cigarette regulations in Nigeria were identified i.e., existing regulatory framework; research evidence; public health considerations; economic considerations; and e-cigarette industry.

The young population of Nigeria and WHO recommendations on regulation of e-cigarettes provides stimulus for Nigerian authorities to impose some form of regulation of e-cigarettes in Nigeria. Adhering to the Nigerian regulatory framework requires compliance with existing policies, and multiple stakeholder consultation. The involvement of multiple stakeholders can be beneficial for inclusivity but may introduce three competing interests, public health, economic, and industry interest, which may conflict and unduly influence e-cigarette regulations in Nigeria. Regulators should prioritise regulatory measures that serve the most essential needs of the population. The findings of this research is beneficial to decision makers as it can help with regulatory preparedness by promoting factors with positive potential to help Nigeria meet its regulatory responsibilities while minimizing factors that do the opposite.