By Erewunmi Peace

A recent report by health experts in Nigeria has raised alarm over the growing connection between packaged foods and the rising prevalence of high blood pressure across the country.

According to the Nigeria Health and Environmental Development (NHED) and the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), more than 70% of sodium consumption among Nigerians comes from processed and packaged foods like instant noodles, bread, bouillon cubes, snacks, sauces, and canned meats.

“These ultra-processed products contain dangerously high levels of salt, and many Nigerians are unaware of the health risks,” said CAPPA Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi.

High Salt, High Risk

The report revealed that Nigeria’s average daily salt intake is 7 grams, far above the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limit of 5 grams. This excess sodium has been directly linked to hypertension, which remains a leading cause of stroke, kidney disease, and other heart-related complications in the country.

Fast Facts:

1 in 3 Nigerian adults now suffers from high blood pressure.

Ultra-processed foods are among the fastest-selling in urban and rural areas.

Many popular food brands do not display sodium content on their labels.

NHED and CAPPA are calling on the government to implement mandatory front-of-pack nutrition labeling and regulate salt content in packaged goods. They also urge manufacturers to reformulate products with healthier salt levels.

Public Awareness is Key

Health advocates are now pushing for nationwide education campaigns to help Nigerians understand the dangers of excessive salt consumption—especially from everyday convenience foods.

“Reducing salt intake by just 30% could save thousands of lives annually,” noted Dr. Jerome Nwando, a nutrition expert who contributed to the study.