The Nigerian Sodium Study Team, in collaboration with the Cardiovascular Research Centre at the University of Abuja, has intensified its efforts to reduce excessive salt intake, as cases of hypertension continue to rise nationwide.
The campaign, which initially focused on sensitising university students in various regions, has now been expanded to reach the general public through grassroots programmes and mass media. The aim is to raise awareness about the dangers of consuming excessive salt and to promote healthier lifestyles.
Professor Dike Ojji, lead investigator at the centre, noted that Nigeria has one of the highest hypertension rates in sub-Saharan Africa, with poor eating habits playing a significant role. He explained that reducing salt in daily meals is one of the simplest and most effective ways to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Health experts say the move is timely, as non-communicable diseases continue to pose a serious challenge in Nigeria.
