Sodium is vital for nerve function and fluid balance, but excessive intake increases risks of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. The WHO recommends ≤2g sodium daily (5g salt), yet global consumption—including in Nigeria—exceeds this, driving preventable illnesses.
Nigeria’s National Sodium Reduction Strategy
Aligned with WHO’s global targets, Nigeria’s National Multi-sectoral Action Plan for NCD Prevention (2019-2025) aims to curb sodium intake through a multi-stakeholder approach led by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMoHSW).
Key Goals by 2030
– Cut sodium intake to ≤2g/day (30% reduction).
– Reduce hypertension prevalence from 27.6% to 21%.
– Boost low-sodium food availability by 60%.
– Reformulate processed foods to lower sodium without compromising taste or quality.
– Raise public awareness about sodium-related health risks.
– Strengthen food labeling laws and restrict unhealthy food marketing, especially to children.
How Nigeria Will Achieve This
Using WHO’s SHAKE framework :
Surveillance: Monitor sodium sources, food sodium levels, and health impacts.
Industry Collaboration: Set sodium benchmarks for processed foods.
Regulation: Enforce clear nutrition labels and restrict harmful marketing.
Education: Run public campaigns promoting healthier diets.
Healthy Food Environments: Prioritize low-sodium options in schools, eateries, and public institutions.
Stakeholder Roles
Government: Revise regulations, coordinate ministries, and train food safety officials.
Food Industry: Reformulate products and comply with sodium targets.
Healthcare Workers: Educate patients on sodium reduction.
Consumers: Choose low-sodium options and advocate for healthier diets.
Call to Action
The FMoHSW urges collaboration across sectors—policymakers, manufacturers, and citizens—to create a healthier Nigeria. By cutting sodium, the nation aims to slash NCD rates and improve quality of life.
Vision: A Nigeria where reduced sodium intake fosters a thriving, heart-healthy population.
Join the movement—small changes in diet can lead to monumental health gains! 🌱💪
Key Fact: Nigeria’s National Technical Working Group on Sodium Reduction (NTWG-SR) oversees progress, ensuring cohesive efforts to meet 2030 targets.
