Nigerian government Launches Landmark National Guideline for Sodium Reduction

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched the National Guideline for Sodium Reduction, a groundbreaking policy aimed at reducing excessive salt consumption and curbing the rising burden of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases in the country.

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The Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, unveiled the guideline at a ministerial event, emphasizing its significance in promoting public health and ensuring a healthier future for Nigerians.

Dr. Salako highlighted that Nigeria’s average daily salt intake far exceeds the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limit of 5 grams per day, with many communities consuming between 7 to 9 grams daily.

He said that this high sodium intake is a leading factor in the prevalence of hypertension, affecting over 35% of adults. The guideline, he stated, provides a structured approach to reducing sodium consumption through mandatory sodium limits in processed foods, public education campaigns, and continuous monitoring mechanisms.

The minister stressed that this initiative is the first of its kind in Africa, aligning global best practices with Nigeria’s local context. He urged the food industry to embrace reformulation by reducing sodium content in processed and packaged foods, assuring them that the government would provide technical guidance and collaborative support to ensure a smooth transition without disrupting commerce.

He further directed NAFDAC to implement suitable regulations to enforce sodium targets.

In addition to the sodium reduction guideline, Dr. Salako also announced the launch of the National Guideline for Food Handlers’ Medical Test, aimed at strengthening food safety by ensuring routine health checks for those involved in food preparation and distribution.

“These efforts directly support the National Policy on Food Safety and Quality Implementation Plan, 2023, and reinforce the government’s commitment to improving public health”. He said.

Unveiling the national sodium reduction campaign tagline: “Let Your Health Guide Your Taste.” Dr. Salako called on all stakeholders, health professionals, industry players, educators, and community leaders to actively support the initiative, ensuring that healthier dietary choices become the norm across Nigeria.

Speaking at the launch the Permanent Secretary of the ministry Daju Kacholom mni emphasized the importance of these guidelines in tackling excessive sodium consumption, which contributes to hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke, as well as ensuring the health and safety of food handlers across the country.

“The new guidelines serve as a comprehensive, evidence-based tool to promote healthier diets and enhance food safety practices”. Highlighting that successful implementation would require collaboration among government agencies, health professionals, the food industry, and civil society.

She urged all stakeholders to support the adoption of these guidelines, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to improved public health.

Appreciating the contributions of various partners and sister ministries, the Permanent Secretary called for collective action to create an environment that supports healthier choices and food safety regulations.

She stressed that the initiative is a significant step towards safeguarding the well-being of Nigerians and ensuring a sustainable healthcare system.

The Director of Food and Drug Services, FMoH&SW Pharm. Dr. Olubunmi Aribeana, emphasized the urgent need to reduce excessive sodium intake, which is a key risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

“According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs account for over 70% of global deaths, with high sodium consumption contributing significantly to hypertension and other life-threatening conditions”. She said.

“In Nigeria, the impact of excessive sodium consumption is evident in the rising prevalence of hypertension and other cardiovascular-related illnesses”.

“The WHO has identified high salt intake as a major contributor to premature deaths, making sodium reduction a top priority for public health interventions.

Dr. Aribeana reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to fostering healthier dietary practices and strengthening food safety regulations to protect the Nigerian population from preventable health risks.

“With sodium reduction now a global and national priority, the launch of these guidelines signals a decisive move toward ensuring a healthier Nigeria”. She added.

Dr. Aribeana highlighted that reducing salt intake is not only a public health necessity but also a crucial step in achieving equity in food safety and nutrition.

The ministry expressed confidence that with sustained efforts, Nigeria can make significant progress in reducing sodium-related health risks and improving the well-being of its citizens.