Abstract:
Tobacco vendors are critical stakeholders in the tobacco supply chain. This study examined
their perception, compliance, and potential economic impact of Nigeria’s tobacco control laws related
to the retail setting. This was a qualitative study involving in-depth interviews of 24 purposively
selected tobacco vendors. The face-to-face interviews were aided by a semi-structured interview
guide, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis with NVivo
version 12. Five themes emerged, encompassing reasons for selling tobacco, awareness, perception,
compliance with tobacco sales laws, the potential economic impact of the laws, and law enforcement
activities. Vendors commenced tobacco sales due to consumers’ demand, profit motives, and advice
from close family relatives. They were unaware and non-compliant with most of the retail-related
laws. Most participants had positive perceptions about the ban on sales to and by minors, were
indifferent about the ban on Tobacco Advertising Promotion and Sponsorships (TAPS) and product
display, and had negative perceptions about the ban on sales of single sticks. Most vendors stated
quitting tobacco sales would not have a serious economic impact on their business. In conclusion, the
vendors demonstrated limited awareness and non-compliance with various retail-oriented tobacco
control laws in Nigeria. Addressing these gaps requires targeted educational campaigns and effective
law enforcement strategies to enhance vendors’ compliance.
