Health risks: Enforce sodium reduction policies, NHED urges FG

The Network for Health Equity & Development (NHED) has called on the federal government agencies, health professionals, and food industry regulators to enforce sodium reduction policies to prevent diet-related health risks in pregnant women.

The Country Director of NHED, Dr. Emmanuel Sokpo, while making the call in a statement to commemorate 2025 World Health Day, also demanded public awareness on the dangers of excessive sodium intake, especially for maternal and newborn health.

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Sokpo also urged the government to ensure clear and mandatory front-of-pack labeling to guide healthier food choices.

“As the world commemorates World Health Day 2025, health advocates in Nigeria emphasised the critical role of nutrition in ensuring maternal and newborn health.

“This year’s theme, ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures’ calls for urgent action to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths—many of which are linked to poor diets, excessive sodium intake, and limited access to nutrition information.

“The link between sodium and maternal health research has shown that excess sodium consumption increases the risk of high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and preterm births—all of which can lead to maternal and newborn deaths.

“Despite these dangers, many Nigerian women unknowingly consume high amounts of sodium hidden in processed foods such as seasonings, bouillon cubes, and instant noodles.

“The need for stronger nutrition policies to protect mothers and babies: Nigeria must implement mandatory sodium reduction targets and adopt front-of-pack warning labels (FOPL) to help consumers identify high-sodium foods.

“Nutrition is a fundamental part of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and should be prioritized to prevent pregnancy complications and ensure healthy births,” he said.