……Reaffirms Commitment to Public Health
By Fatima Saka
Abuja, Nigeria – In a landmark move to address the rising burden of hypertension, the Federal Government has unveiled the National Guideline for Sodium Reduction to curb excessive salt intake and improve public health.
With over 35% of Nigerian adults affected by hypertension, this initiative aims to set sodium limits in processed foods, promote public awareness, and establish robust monitoring mechanisms.
A Defining Moment in Nigeria’s Public Health Commitment
Speaking at the launch, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, described the initiative as a significant step toward protecting and enhancing the health of all Nigerians.
“This guideline represents our nation’s determination to prevent the adverse health effects of excessive sodium consumption,” Salako stated.
Developed in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the framework is the first of its kind in Africa. It introduces strict sodium content limits in processed and packaged foods while encouraging behavioral change campaigns and industry-wide compliance.
The minister urged industry players to embrace reformulation, noting that the guideline is not a regulatory imposition but an opportunity to pioneer healthier consumer products. He also called on public health advocates, educators, and community leaders to support the effort through education and outreach programs.
The Global Sodium Crisis and Its Impact on Nigeria
Dr. Salma Ibrahim Anas, Special Adviser to the President on Health, highlighted the alarming global salt consumption levels, which average up to 10 grams per day—double the WHO’s recommended daily intake of less than 5 grams (2 grams of sodium).
Represented by Dr. Sabeeman Muhammed, Technical Assistant on Health Financing and Systems Strengthening, Anas noted that in low- and middle-income countries, excessive sodium intake often results from:
The widespread use of saltshakers, high-sodium condiments, and sauces in home cooking.
The globalization of the food industry, which exposes populations to processed foods high in sodium.
Cultural preferences for salty diets and the affordability of salt as a flavor enhancer.
“High dietary sodium intake is a major public health concern and a key contributor to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and strokes—which affect nearly 30% of Nigerian adults,” Anas explained.
She emphasized that reducing sodium consumption is critical in lowering the risk of heart disease, kidney failure, and stroke, as studies show a direct link between high salt intake and hypertension.
Stakeholders Applaud the Initiative
Mrs. Okeoma Obasi, Principal Advisor at Resolve to Save Lives Nigeria, lauded the government’s efforts, calling it a crucial step in reducing the nation’s cardiovascular disease burden.
“Cardiovascular diseases claim at least 19 million lives annually, making them the leading cause of non-communicable disease deaths globally,” she noted.
Obasi praised Nigeria’s leadership in promoting healthy food policies in Africa and reaffirmed her organization’s commitment to supporting government efforts to combat NCDs.
Similarly, Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), described the launch as a major milestone in public health advocacy.
“We strongly believe that effective implementation of this guideline will reduce excessive sodium intake and lower cases of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases,” Oluwafemi stated.
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He reiterated CAPPA’s commitment to partnering with the government in advancing policies that enhance public health and well-being.
Steps Toward a Healthier Nigeria
The launch of the National Guideline for Sodium Reduction marks a critical turning point in Nigeria’s fight against hypertension and other non-communicable diseases.
By adopting sodium reduction measures, the government is making a long-term investment in the health, longevity, and prosperity of the Nigerian people.
