The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially launched the National Guideline for Sodium Reduction, a major public health initiative aimed at curbing the alarming rise in hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Speaking during the launch in Abuja on Wednesday, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, said the guideline responds to urgent health data showing that average salt intake in Nigeria far exceeds the WHO’s recommended limits.

Represented by Olubunmi Aribeana, Director of the Food and Drug Services Department, Salako said excessive sodium intake is directly linked to rising hypertension rates, now affecting over 35% of Nigerian adults.

Urban Lifestyles Fueling Salt Crisis

He attributed the worsening trend to urbanization and increased consumption of processed foods, which often contain dangerously high sodium levels.

“In urban areas, people eat more prepared and salty meals, unaware they’re increasing long-term health risks,” Salako explained.
“To reverse this, we proudly introduce the National Guideline for Sodium Reduction—a framework built to prevent the harmful effects of excess salt.”

First-of-Its-Kind Guideline in Africa

Describing the new policy as Africa’s first sodium reduction guideline, the minister said it merges global standards with Nigeria’s local context.
The document sets clear limits on sodium levels in packaged foods and encourages the food industry to align with WHO recommendations.

Salako added that the guideline also focuses on public awareness and behavior change, using mass media, social media, and grassroots campaigns to promote healthier eating habits.

Food Handlers to Undergo Regular Health Checks

In addition, the minister introduced the National Guideline for Food Handlers’ Medical Tests, designed to improve food safety across the country.
This policy mandates routine medical screenings for food handlers, ensuring safer food environments and stronger public health safeguards.

“Together, these guidelines support the National Policy on Food Safety and Quality (2023) and help us build a healthier food culture,” he stated.

Health Leaders Applaud the Move

Olufunmilola Yusuf, speaking on behalf of Olubunmi Aribeana, said the health risks of high sodium intake—especially heart disease—are well documented.

“The WHO says non-communicable diseases (NCDs) cause over 70% of global deaths. Reducing salt intake can significantly lower these risks,” she noted.

Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), called the launch a milestone for Nigeria’s health sector.
“This policy will greatly reduce excessive salt consumption and the burden of heart-related diseases,” he said.

NAFDAC and Global Experts Back the Policy

Mojisola Adeyeye, Director General of NAFDAC, expressed strong support for the policy, emphasizing the agency’s role in regulating sodium content and labeling on packaged foods.
Represented by Kayode Fagboyo, she pledged to ensure full industry compliance.

Dr. Adeolu Adebiyi, Senior Advisor at the Global Health Advocacy Incubator, praised Nigeria’s leadership, noting that only South Africa has enacted a similar regulation in Africa.

“This is a cost-effective strategy,” he said. “When people stay healthy, they reduce hospital costs and contribute more to the economy.”