The Federal Government, on Wednesday, issued a stern warning to Nigerians over the dangers of excessive salt consumption, rebuking recent controversial claims by the founder of Christ Embassy, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, who urged followers to embrace more salt in their diets.
In a viral video posted on social media, Oyakhilome alleged that Africans were being manipulated into avoiding salt so they could become dependent on sodium-based pharmaceutical products.
He claimed salt was beneficial and that health advisories against its intake were part of a broader conspiracy.
But the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare swiftly countered the cleric’s claims, describing them as misleading and potentially harmful to public health.
In a statement signed by the ministry’s Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Alaba Balogun, the government emphasized that while sodium is essential for bodily function, uncontrolled consumption—especially through salt—poses severe health threats including hypertension, stroke, kidney failure, and heart disease.
“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has observed a widely circulated video in which a respected religious leader discourages Nigerians from heeding medical advice on salt consumption. This is not only misleading but dangerous,” the statement read.
Balogun added, “We recognize and respect the role of religious leaders in shaping societal values.
However, when such influence is used to spread misinformation that jeopardizes lives, it must be urgently corrected. Excess salt intake is a silent killer.”
He clarified that sodium found in certain medications is scientifically formulated and differs significantly from dietary salt.
“The presence of sodium in medicine is not equivalent to the consumption of table salt. Medical prescriptions undergo strict regulatory scrutiny to ensure safety,” he said.
Citing World Health Organization guidelines, the ministry reiterated that the recommended daily salt intake should not exceed five grams—approximately one teaspoon. However, studies show that the average Nigerian consumes more than double this amount.
In response, Balogun revealed that the government is set to launch the National Sodium Reduction Guidelines, a strategic policy aimed at cutting down salt levels in processed and packaged foods across the country.
“Doctors do not lie. Our health professionals are trained to deliver evidence-based advice grounded in science. We urge Nigerians to disregard unverified claims and instead rely on credible medical guidance,” he stated.
Public health experts have also weighed in, warning that disinformation—especially when coming from influential figures—can significantly undermine health interventions in a country already grappling with rising non-communicable diseases.
The health ministry urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, reduce salt consumption, read food labels carefully, and adopt healthier eating habits to prevent life-threatening conditions.
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