Dr. Salma Anas-Kolo Ibrahim, Special Adviser to the President on Health, has highlighted the urgent need to address hypertension and excessive salt consumption in Nigeria. Speaking at her investiture ceremony as Policy Champion for Salt Target Regulations, Ibrahim stressed the importance of public education and policy intervention to combat cardiovascular diseases, which place a significant burden on the country’s health system.
Ibrahim revealed that about 38.1% of Nigerian adults suffer from hypertension, with excessive salt intake, averaging 10 grams per meal—double the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommended limit—contributing to 10% of cardiovascular disease-related deaths in Nigeria. She emphasized the need to adhere to the WHO’s sodium consumption guideline of less than two grams per meal, equivalent to under one teaspoon of salt.
Ibrahim underscored the impact of high sodium intake, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles, and committed to leveraging her role to raise awareness and advocate for healthier eating habits. She announced the launch of the “Peabody Youth Campaign for Health,” aimed at educating and mobilizing young people to promote better dietary practices.
Dr. Jerome Mafeni, Technical Director of the Network for Health Equity and Development (NHED), highlighted the need for mandatory salt reduction targets and social media advocacy. He emphasized ongoing collaboration to drive public health improvements.
Joy Amafah, Nigeria Coordinator for Food & Nutritional Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), noted the potential for Nigeria to lead in sodium reduction efforts in West Africa, citing successful measures in South Africa.
Batet Musa, Nutrition Policy Advisor at Resolve to Save Lives, praised the appointment of Ibrahim as Policy Champion and stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in public health.
Dr. Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), advocated for preventive strategies and a shift towards preventive health measures.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Olusina Ajidahun, appointed Social Media Influencer for Salt Target Regulations, committed to using his platform to raise awareness about the dangers of excessive salt consumption and promote healthier living.
Dr. Aminu Yakubu, Technical Assistant at the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Health, reiterated the government’s commitment to preventive measures and the critical role of setting salt reduction targets to improve public health.