CSOs Urge Nigerian Government to Tighten Food Regulations Amid Rising Hypertension

Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) under the Coalition for Healthy Food Advocacy have called on Nigeria’s Federal Government to enforce stricter food regulations and sodium reduction policies. This appeal was made during a press briefing in Abuja commemorating the 2026 World Salt Awareness Week. The groups highlighted that excessive salt consumption, primarily from processed foods like seasoning cubes, instant noodles, and fast foods, is driving a surge in hypertension, stroke, and cardiovascular diseases. Dr. Aminu Sokpo of the Network for Health Equity and Development emphasized that reducing salt intake is a cost-effective public health intervention. He urged the government to improve front-of-pack nutrition labeling and launch awareness campaigns. Dr. Jerome Mafeni noted that hidden sodium in packaged goods leads to unknowingly high consumption among Nigerians. Bukola Odele from Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa stressed the need for consumer protection and clear nutrition information. The coalition advocates for collaborative efforts involving government agencies, the media, and the food industry to create healthier food environments and mitigate the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in Nigeria.