The Federal Government has launched the National Guideline for Sodium Reduction, a landmark initiative designed to curb excessive sodium intake and combat the rising prevalence of hypertension in Nigeria.
Currently, over 35 per cent of Nigerian adults suffer from hypertension, a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, making this initiative crucial in the country’s public health efforts.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako described the guideline as a significant step in Nigeria’s commitment to protecting public health.
“This guideline is a carefully crafted framework that underscores our determination to prevent the adverse health effects of excessive sodium consumption,” he said.
Developed in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the guideline is the first of its kind in Africa. It sets clear limits on sodium content in processed and packaged foods, promotes public education campaigns to raise awareness and establishes robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track progress.
Salako urged industry partners to embrace food reformulation, emphasising 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 initiative through community outreach and education.
Special adviser to the President on Health, Dr. Salma Anas represented by a technical assistant on health financing and systems strengthening, Dr. Sabeeman Muhammed highlighted the global challenge of excessive sodium intake. She noted that the average daily salt consumption worldwide is about 10 grams, far exceeding WHO’s recommended limit of less than 5 grams (or 2 grams of sodium).
She explained that in many low- and middle-income countries, excessive sodium intake primarily comes from discretionary salt addition during cooking and at the table, high-sodium sauces and condiments commonly used in home cooking, and the growing consumption of processed and packaged foods due to globalisation.
Anas pointed out that cultural preferences for high-salt diets, the affordability of salt as a flavor enhancer, and the increasing reliance on processed foods contribute to excessive sodium consumption.
She warned that high sodium intake poses a serious public health risk, significantly increasing the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Studies show that communities with high salt consumption have a substantially higher incidence of hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and end-stage renal disease.
“Hypertension affects approximately 30 per cent of Nigerian adults, while cardiovascular diseases—including coronary heart disease and stroke – remain leading causes of mortality. Reducing sodium intake is a crucial step in mitigating these health risks,” she added.
Principal advisor at Resolve to Save Lives Nigeria, Okeoma Obasi commended the government’s initiative, describing it as a vital step in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
She noted that cardiovascular diseases claim over 19 million lives annually, making them the leading cause of NCD-related deaths globally.
“The development of a national sodium reduction guideline is a commendable move. Nigeria has positioned itself as a leader in promoting healthy food policies in Africa,” she said.
Obasi emphasised the need for sustained commitment from the government and stakeholders to effectively implement the guideline and address non-communicable diseases.
Similarly, executive director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), Akinbode Oluwafemi hailed the launch as a major milestone in public health.
“We strongly believe that effective implementation of this guideline will significantly reduce excessive sodium intake and lower cases of cardiovascular and non-communicable diseases in Nigeria,” he said.
Oluwafemi reaffirmed CAPPA’s commitment to supporting the Ministry of Health in promoting policies that enhance public health outcomes.
The launch of the National Guideline for Sodium Reduction marks a critical step toward improving public health in Nigeria. The government’s commitment to reducing sodium consumption represents a significant investment in the nation’s well-being, longevity and prosperity.
With collaboration from industry partners, public health advocates, and community leaders, the successful implementation of this guideline could curb hypertension and related complications, ultimately improving the health of millions of Nigerians.
