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.
Dr Rita Ngozi Nwankwo RDN
NSN Adamawa State Chapter is out for sensitization lectures come 29th April 2025 during our innuagration ceremony, we need your support and collaboration.
Dr Rita Ngozi Nwankwo RDN MNSN Chairperson NSN Adamawa State Chapter.