FG launches 5-year plan to remove lead poisoning

The federal authorities, Thursday, launched a five-year strategic plan for the elimination of lead poisoning in Nigeria, saying an estimated 80 million youngsters are at present uncovered to the poisonous substance.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, unveiled the plan in Abuja on the commemoration of the 2026 International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week with the theme: “From Detection to Prevention,” which additionally marked the official dissemination of the nationwide framework.

Salako stated lead poisoning stays a serious public well being and environmental problem affecting a number of physique methods, with youngsters, pregnant girls and ladies of child-bearing age most weak.

He stated publicity might have severe and lasting penalties, usually with out instant apparent signs, making prevention, early detection and well timed motion vital.

The minister stated the federal government has adopted a multi sectoral method via the Inter-Agency Working Group on Lead Poisoning Prevention and Elimination, which brings collectively related Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), improvement companions and stakeholders to coordinate nationwide response.

He cited proof from Lagos, Ogun, Sokoto and Zamfara states which confirmed totally different pathways of publicity and the necessity for domestically responsive interventions.

He stated environmental investigations and Blood Lead Level assessments in Lagos knowledgeable the event of a State Lead Prevention and Control Action Plan, whereas the Ogijo expertise in Ogun state underscored the necessity for environmental and occupational controls and accountable battery recycling.

“These experiences reinforce a fundamental lesson: we cannot treat our way out of lead poisoning; we must prevent exposure wherever possible,” Dr Salako stated.

He stated the theme: “From Detection to Prevention” displays Nigeria’s shift from merely figuring out circumstances to systematically stopping publicity at supply.