The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating lead-based paints and reducing dangerous lead exposure across Nigeria by 2030.
According to The Guardian, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Salihu Usman, announced the commitment during the 2026 International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week in Abuja.
The programme focused on strengthening public awareness, environmental regulation and preventive health measures.
The government warned that continued exposure to lead posed serious health risks, particularly to children and other vulnerable groups.
FG targets lead poisoning prevention
Represented by the Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Adeola Omotunde, Usman stressed the need to implement existing environmental safety standards.
He explained that stronger enforcement was essential to protecting residents from hazardous chemicals.
The ministry identified manufacturers, importers, retailers, painters and construction workers among groups requiring greater awareness.
It also encouraged consumers to choose safer products and comply with environmental safety guidelines.
Usman warned that lead exposure could damage the nervous system and other important body functions.
He said environmental monitoring, laboratory testing and public health surveillance were necessary to prevent further exposure.
Ogun launches lead poisoning assessment report
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Government unveiled a lead poisoning assessment report to strengthen environmental health protection.
Commissioner for Health Tomi Coker said the report would provide evidence to guide preventive measures and public health decisions.
She identified children, pregnant people and workers exposed to lead as particularly vulnerable.
The state also plans to strengthen cooperation among government agencies, industries and environmental organisations.
Ogun warns polluters over environmental damage
Commissioner for the Environment Ola Oresanya said the government would enforce the polluter-pays principle.
Under the policy, individuals and organisations responsible for environmental pollution would bear the cost of addressing the damage.
The state called for stronger industry compliance and safer handling of hazardous materials.
The Federal Government maintained that achieving its 2030 target would require cooperation among regulators, manufacturers and consumers.
It also promised to strengthen environmental monitoring and promote safer alternatives to lead-containing products.
