80 Million Nigerian Children at Risk of Lead Poisoning, Government Warns

The Nigerian government has announced that around 80 million children are at risk of lead poisoning, urging for stronger actions to tackle this serious health issue. Dr. Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, made this statement during the International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week in Abuja.

Dr. Salako emphasized that children, women of childbearing age, and pregnant women are especially vulnerable to lead exposure, which can lead to severe health problems. He noted that lead is a toxic substance that can affect various body systems, often without immediate symptoms. Therefore, prevention and early detection are crucial.

To address this issue, the government has formed an Inter-Agency Working Group focused on preventing and eliminating lead poisoning. This group will coordinate efforts among different government departments, development partners, and other stakeholders. Salako mentioned that experiences from states like Lagos, Ogun, Sokoto, and Zamfara show the need for targeted actions based on specific local conditions.

He pointed out that lead exposure sources include environmental factors and unsafe practices, such as battery recycling. Salako stated, “We cannot treat our way out of lead poisoning; we must prevent exposure wherever possible.” He introduced a Five-Year Strategic Plan for Lead Poisoning Elimination, which aims to guide coordinated actions to prevent exposure and improve monitoring of lead in the environment.

The plan will focus on better regulation, enforcement, and laboratory capabilities. Salako urged states to create their own action plans and called for community involvement in identifying risks. He also warned against various sources of lead exposure, including lead-based paint, contaminated soil, and unsafe water pipes.

Dr. Sarah Ango from UNICEF highlighted that lead poisoning is preventable but often goes unnoticed. She stated that UNICEF aims to eliminate childhood lead poisoning by 2040 and is working to enhance government efforts in monitoring and policy implementation. The International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, observed from October 18 to 24, aims to raise awareness about lead exposure and promote measures to eliminate it.