Lagos stakeholders are urging the government to implement more stringent policies to curb lead poisoning and reduce toxic exposure across the state. This came to light during a three-day workshop organized by Resolve to Save Lives (RSTL) in collaboration with the Lagos State Government. The event brought together experts from health, environment, consumer protection, and water management sectors to craft strategies against lead contamination in consumer goods, water systems, and the environment.
Dr. Nanlop Ogbureke, Executive Director of Resolve to Save Lives, noted that the initiative aims to help Lagos develop a roadmap to phase out lead from cosmetics and other products. She described lead poisoning as a critical public health issue due to its severe impact on children, pregnant women, and adults. She highlighted that exposure arises from mining, agriculture, polluted water, and industrial waste, warning that even low levels can cause permanent harm to children’s brain development and cardiovascular health.
Ogbureke emphasized that multiple lead poisoning cases have been reported across Nigeria, necessitating stronger prevention and public education. She stated that the project will gather national data to advocate for stricter regulations. “The government must create awareness and enforce rules, while individuals and industries must prevent contamination,” she added.
Special Adviser to the Lagos Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, described the workshop as evidence of the state’s dedication to protecting residents through science-based policies. She noted that contaminated consumer goods, unsafe industrial practices, informal recycling, and adulterated cosmetics pose serious health risks. Ogunyemi said the most vulnerable groups are children and women of childbearing age, who suffer developmental disorders and long-term health issues from lead exposure. She recalled that Resolve to Save Lives launched its lead prevention program in Nigeria in May 2025, with Lagos as one of four pilot states alongside Kano, Kwara, and Nasarawa.
Dr. Olajumoke Oyenuga, Director of Health Planning at the Lagos Ministry of Health, said the workshop aimed to localize the national strategic plan for lead prevention. “By the end, Lagos will have a document guiding stakeholders on effective lead control,” she explained. The General Manager of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, Afolabi Solebo, warned that no level of lead exposure is safe. He identified imported cosmetics, traditional medicines, contaminated food, industrial emissions, old plumbing, and lead-based paints as major sources. He also highlighted risks from unregulated battery recycling, e-waste processing, and illegal smelting in areas like Ikorodu, Alaba, and Ajegunle. Solebo stressed that poor awareness worsens the problem and announced intensified enforcement of safety standards and public sensitization campaigns.
The General Manager of the Lagos Waste Water Management Office, Adeyemi Afolabi, urged action to prevent lead from entering waterways, calling it a severe environmental and economic issue requiring cooperation among government, industries, and residents.