By Charles Maduka
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has cautioned Nigerians against excessive salt intake following a viral video in which Pastor Chris Oyakhilome encouraged people to consume more salt.
Pastor Oyakhilome, who is the president and founder of Christ Embassy, claimed in the video that Africans are being discouraged from eating salt to boost the sales of sodium-based medicines. In response, the ministry said this statement is misleading and dangerous to public health.
Speaking on behalf of the ministry, Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Laba Balogun, explained that although sodium—the main component of salt—is important for functions like nerve activity and fluid balance, it should only be taken in small amounts.
“The concern is not about salt itself but taking too much of it,” the ministry said. “The World Health Organisation and the Nigerian Government recommend no more than 5 grams of salt a day, which is about one teaspoon. Anything above that increases the risk of serious health problems.”
The ministry added that many Nigerians eat more than double the safe amount of salt daily, which contributes to high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease. These illnesses are among the top causes of death in the country.
To tackle the issue, the ministry has introduced the National Sodium Reduction Guidelines. This plan aims to lower salt levels in packaged foods, meals cooked at home, and food sold by vendors, without affecting taste or nutrition. It also involves food companies, regulators, and the public in the effort to reduce salt consumption.
The ministry also addressed claims made by Pastor Oyakhilome, saying, “Doctors do not lie. Our medical professionals give advice based on years of scientific research and experience. Sodium in medicine is not the same as table salt, and it is safe when used correctly.”
The ministry stressed that faith and science should work together to protect the health of Nigerians.
“We urge the public to get health information from trained medical experts and support efforts to reduce preventable diseases,” the ministry stated.
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