FG launches National Guidelines for food handlers, medical tests, Sodium Reduction

By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that unhealthy diets are a leading cause of over 19 million deaths globally each year, with excessive sodium intake being one of the main culprits.

Standard-Times Nigeria reports that Dr. Walter Kazadi, WHO Country Representative, made this statement on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, in Abuja at the official launch of the National Guidelines for Sodium Reduction.

WHO recommends that adults reduce sodium consumption to less than 5 grams per day, which is equivalent to less than one teaspoon.

Standard-Times quoted Dr. Kazadi as saying: “In many countries, three-quarters of sodium intake comes from ultra-processed and processed foods such as bread, sauces, dressings, crackers, and cookies. Excessive salt consumption is linked to non-communicable diseases like high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, gastric cancer, and kidney disease.”

WHO expressed concern over widespread ignorance regarding sodium intake, noting that the global average sodium consumption stands at 10.8 grams per day, more than double the WHO recommendation. This highlights the urgent need for sustainable action.

“Sodium reduction plays a key role in protecting populations from the burden of non-communicable diseases,” WHO stated.

Dr. Kazadi reiterated the 2013 commitment of all 194 WHO member states to reducing sodium intake by 30% by 2025. However, he noted that progress has been slow, with only a few countries achieving significant reductions. As a result, WHO is now considering extending the target to 2030.

Dr. Kazadi further stressed that successful implementation of sodium reduction measures will create a healthier food landscape in Nigeria, empower consumers, promote transparency, and foster collaboration between policymakers and the food industry.

WHO however, emphasized that reducing sodium intake is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve health and reduce non-communicable diseases.

“For every $1 invested in scaling up sodium reduction interventions, there is a return of at least $12 in health benefits,” WHO stated.

With the launch of the National Guidelines for Sodium Reduction, WHO called for action from:
The Government: will adopt and implement standards for front-of-package labeling, marketing restrictions, and improved surveillance of sodium intake.

The Food Industry to reformulate food products to contain less salt and meet national sodium targets and benchmarks.
Civil Society, the Media, and Consumers to advocate for and demand lower sodium content in processed foods.

“WHO remains committed to supporting all member states in implementing, monitoring, and enforcing policies that ensure a healthier food environment for both adults and children,” Dr. Kazadi stated.

Standard-Times Nigeria also reports that Dr. Salman Ibrahim Anas, Special Adviser to the President on Health, and Dr. Iziag Adekunle Salako, Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, delivered speeches through their representatives, both highlighting the significance of the initiative and pledging their support for its adoption and implementation.

Opening and welcome remarks were given by Daju Kachollom, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, and Pharm. Mrs. Olubunmi Aribeana, Director of the Food and Drug Services Department, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling excessive sodium consumption.

In a separate interview at the launch event, Mrs. Okeoma Obasi, Principal Advisor for Cardiovascular Health at Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL), stated that cardiovascular diseases account for 19 million deaths globally each year, representing 75% of all non-communicable disease-related deaths, according to WHO.

While fielding questions from journalists, Obasi said:
“Today marks a great milestone for Nigeria, as this is the first time the country is introducing national guidelines on sodium reduction. Excess sodium is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and the government has recognized the need to address this challenge.”

She emphasized that raising public awareness and reformulating packaged foods to reduce sodium levels will help curb high sodium consumption, which exceeds WHO recommendations in Nigeria.

“The WHO recommends a daily sodium intake of 2 grams maximum. However, in Nigeria, the current intake far exceeds this limit. This initiative is the beginning of a journey to educate the public and regulate food formulation to ensure healthier sodium levels,” Obasi added.

Joy Amafa-Isaac, In-Country Coordinator for the Food and Nutrition Program at Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), and Dr. Adeolu Adebiyi, Senior Advisor for Africa in the Food Policy Program at GHAI, also spoke about the significance of sodium reduction for public health in Nigeria.

The official launch of the National Guidelines for Food Handlers, Medical Tests, and Sodium Reduction concluded with a group photograph featuring key industry stakeholders.
The event’s slogan: “Let Your Health Guide Your Taste.”