“HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT: HOW DANGEROUS INDUSTRIES ARE TARGETING YOUR CHILDREN WITH CANDY-COATED ADDICTIONS”

While parents work tirelessly to keep their children safe, alarming new evidence shows that danger is slipping through the cracks- often in the form of bright wrappers and sweet flavors.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that over 37 million children aged 13 to 15 around the world are using tobacco.

Rather than remorse, the industry calls it “marketing.” No wonder WHO has chosen the theme for World No Tobacco Day 2025 as “Unmasking the Appeal.”

The warning signs are not just global — they’re right here at home.

In Nigeria, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised a red flag for parents: watch your children’s bags.
According to agency spokesperson Femi Babafemi, recent drug seizures uncovered hard drugs disguised as everyday treats — sweets, chocolates, candies, and biscuits.

“They come in colourful & attractive wraps and names,” Babafemi posted on X, “but they’re destiny destroyers.”

These deceptive products are designed to appeal to the very people most vulnerable — your children.

This is more than a trend. It’s a calculated assault on innocence. As industries dress danger in glitter and sugar, one has to ask:

If your child can recognize the packaging, but not the peril — isn’t it time to unmask the trap before it’s too late?