Nigeria has restated its determination to end lead poisoning in Nigeria through stronger policy implementation, inter-agency collaboration, and nationwide awareness campaigns aimed at protecting
children and vulnerable populations.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, stated this in Abuja during the commemoration of the National Lead Poisoning Elimination Day with the theme “No Safe Level: Act Now to End Lead Exposure’.
The Minister represented by the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom described lead poisoning as a “silent but deadly threat” that undermines human capital development and national productivity.
He noted that there is no safe level of lead exposure, especially for children whose developing brains are most at risk.
Professor Pate revealed that the Ministry has taken decisive steps, including the development of a National Lead Elimination Policy and a Five-Year Strategic Plan, designed to enhance surveillance, expand diagnostic capacity, and coordinate prevention efforts across health,
environment, mining, and water sectors.
He further noted the inauguration of the National Inter-Agency Working Group on Lead Poisoning Elimination to drive regulatory reform and mobilise funding for long-term solutions.
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He commended Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and other partners for their continued support in testing, treatment, and advocacy initiatives, while emphasising that the government will not relent in ensuring a lead-free environment for all Nigerians.
“Our mission is clear, every child deserves to live, learn, and thrive in a safe and healthy environment,” he stated.
Public health challenge
The Director, Public Health Department, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Godwin Ntadom described lead poisoning as one of the most preventable yet under-recognised public health challenges, noting that it causes irreversible brain and nervous system damage, impairs learning, and contributes to chronic diseases in adults.
He recalled that Nigeria had witnessed tragic lead poisoning outbreaks
in Zamfara, Niger, and Sokoto States, which claimed several lives and left deep scars on affected communities.
According to him, these experiences have strengthened the government’s
resolve to prevent future occurrences through evidence-based policies,
multi-sectoral collaboration, and community engagement.
The Director added that the Ministry, through the Department of Public Health, will continue to work with sister ministries, the state governments, and development partners to implement the National Lead.
The Elimination Policy and Five-Year Strategic Plan, is aimed at strengthening surveillance, laboratory capacity, and public awareness to achieve a lead-free Nigeria.