The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has cautioned Nigerians against excessive salt consumption, following a viral video in which Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, founder of Christ Embassy, claimed that Africans are being discouraged from using salt to boost the sales of sodium-based medications.
Responding on Wednesday, the ministry’s Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Laba Balogun, acknowledged that while sodium—a key component of salt—is essential for vital body functions, it should only be consumed in moderation.
In a public statement, the ministry said:
“Salt contains sodium, which supports nerve function, muscle movement, and fluid balance. However, the issue is not salt itself, but its overconsumption. The World Health Organization and the Nigerian Government recommend no more than 5 grams of salt per day—roughly one teaspoon. Exceeding this significantly raises the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease.”
Citing research, the ministry noted that many Nigerians consume more than twice the recommended amount of salt daily, contributing to rising cases of non-communicable diseases.
To address this, the ministry is implementing a National Sodium Reduction Strategy, which includes new guidelines targeting sodium levels in packaged foods, home-cooked meals, and restaurant offerings. Food producers, regulators, and consumers are expected to cooperate in lowering sodium intake without compromising nutrition.
The ministry further clarified that sodium in regulated medications is not the same as dietary salt and is safe when prescribed by medical professionals. It also emphasized that Nigeria’s doctors base their advice on years of scientific research and patient care—not commercial interests.
“Doctors do not lie. We urge Nigerians to trust qualified health professionals and avoid misinformation that could endanger lives,” the statement read.
Concluding, the ministry reaffirmed that faith and science can coexist and work together to improve public health, encouraging citizens to support efforts to reduce preventable diseases through informed choices.