Nigeria's Federal Government Targets Lead Paint Ban by 2030

The Federal Government of Nigeria is intensifying efforts to phase out lead-based paints by 2030 as part of a strategy to prevent lead poisoning and safeguard public health. Dr Salihu Usman, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Environment, made this announcement on Tuesday in Abuja during the 2026 International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week.

Represented by Mrs Omotunde Adeola, the Director of the Pollution Control and Environmental Health Department, Usman stated that effective lead prevention requires coordinated action across environmental regulation, public health, product standards, industry practices, occupational safety, and community awareness. He highlighted that lead poisoning is a serious but preventable issue, particularly affecting children and pregnant women.

Usman warned that there is no safe level of lead exposure and outlined the potential health risks associated with lead, including neurological and cognitive impairments. He called for collaboration among various stakeholders to promote safer alternatives and ensure compliance with established standards.