Lagos Stakeholders Call for Stronger Policies to Combat Lead Poisoning
In a decisive move to address the escalating public health threat of lead poisoning, stakeholders in Lagos State have called for more robust policies and coordinated action to reduce exposure to toxic substances. The call came during a three-day workshop organized by Resolve to Save Lives (RSTL) in partnership with the Lagos State Government, bringing together officials from health, environment, consumer protection, and water management sectors.
Why Lead Poisoning Demands Urgent Attention
Lead poisoning is a silent but devastating crisis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), lead exposure accounts for over 1 million deaths annually worldwide, with the highest burden in low- and middle-income countries. In Nigeria, the problem is compounded by unregulated industrial activities, informal recycling, and widespread use of lead-contaminated consumer products.
Dr. Nanlop Ogbureke, Executive Director of Resolve to Save Lives, emphasized that the initiative aims to create a clear implementation roadmap for eliminating lead from cosmetics and other consumer products. “We are starting with lead in cosmetics and later extend to other consumer products,” she said, highlighting the need for a phased, evidence-based approach.
Lead exposure is particularly dangerous because it has no safe threshold. Even low levels can cause irreversible harm, especially in children, affecting brain development, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age are also at high risk, as lead can cross the placenta and affect fetal development.
Sources of Lead Contamination in Lagos
The workshop identified multiple sources of lead contamination in Lagos, including:
- Imported cosmetics and traditional medicines – Many products from unregulated markets contain high lead levels.
- Industrial emissions and informal recycling – Unregulated battery recycling, e-waste processing, and illegal smelting in areas like Ikorodu, Alaba, and Ajegunle release lead into the environment.
- Old plumbing systems and lead-based paints – Aging infrastructure in many Lagos neighborhoods leaches lead into drinking water.
- Contaminated food and water sources – Agricultural runoff and industrial waste pollute waterways, affecting both urban and rural communities.
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, noted that “exposure to contaminated consumer goods, unsafe industrial practices, informal recycling activities, and adulterated cosmetics continues to pose serious health risks in Nigeria.” She stressed that children and women of reproductive age remain the most vulnerable, contributing to developmental disorders, preventable illnesses, and long-term health complications.
Building a National Framework for Prevention
Resolve to Save Lives launched its lead poisoning prevention programme in Nigeria in May 2025, with Lagos selected as one of four pilot states alongside Kano, Kwara, and Nasarawa. The programme aims to generate national data to support advocacy for stricter regulations and enforceable policies.
Dr. Olajumoke Oyenuga, Director of Health Care Planning, Research and Statistics at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, explained that the workshop was designed to domesticate the national strategic plan on lead poisoning prevention. “At the end of this workshop, Lagos State will have a document that stakeholders can work with to ensure effective lead prevention and control,” she said.
Practical Steps for Consumers and Communities
While policy changes are critical, individual and community action can also reduce exposure. Here are practical steps:
- Check product labels – Avoid cosmetics and traditional remedies that do not list ingredients or are imported from countries with weak regulations.
- Test water sources – If you rely on well water or old plumbing, consider testing for lead. Simple home test kits are available.
- Support safe recycling – Encourage proper disposal of batteries and electronics through certified recyclers.
- Advocate for enforcement – Report suspected lead contamination to the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) or the Ministry of Health.
Afolabi Solebo, General Manager of LASCOPA, warned that “there is no safe level of lead exposure” and identified imported cosmetics, traditional medicines, contaminated food items, industrial emissions, old plumbing systems, and lead-based paints as major sources. He also raised concerns over unregulated battery recycling operations and illegal smelting activities in areas such as Ikorodu, Alaba, and Ajegunle.
According to Solebo, poor public awareness continues to worsen the challenge, as many consumers cannot identify unsafe products or understand the dangers associated with lead exposure. He said the agency would intensify enforcement of product safety standards and strengthen public sensitization campaigns to ensure safer products in Lagos markets.
Protecting Waterways and the Environment
Adeyemi Afolabi, General Manager of the Lagos State Waste Water Management Office, stressed the need to prevent lead contamination in waterways across the state. He described lead infiltration into waterways as a serious environmental and economic concern requiring urgent intervention from government agencies, industries, and residents.
Lead in water not only threatens human health but also damages aquatic ecosystems and reduces the productivity of fisheries, which many Lagos communities depend on for food and income.
Conclusion: A Call for Collective Action
The workshop underscored that lead poisoning is a preventable tragedy. With stronger policies, public education, and coordinated action, Lagos can significantly reduce exposure and protect its most vulnerable populations. As Dr. Ogbureke stated, “The government has responsibilities to create awareness and enforce regulations, while individuals and industries also have responsibilities to ensure lead contamination is prevented.”
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