Health ministry counters Oyakhilome’s ‘salt is good’ sermon, warns against excessive intake

The federal ministry of health and social welfare has cautioned Nigerians against excess intake of salt.

The caution follows a viral video where Chris Oyakhilome, the president and founder of Loveworld Incorporated, better known as Christ Embassy, was advising his congregation to eat more salt.

In the video, the clergy noted that Africans were deliberately made to avoid salt so that they could buy sodium-infused drugs.

In a statement on Wednesday, Alaba Balogun, the ministry’s deputy director of information and public relations, said salt contains sodium — an essential mineral that supports vital body functions— but needs to be taken in moderation.

“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,” the statement reads.

“While we deeply respect the important role of faith and religious leaders in our society, it is crucial to correct misinformation that poses a risk to public health.”

Balogun noted that salt intake is not bad, warning that its excessive consumption contributes to high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, and other preventable illnesses.

He said the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends a maximum of 5 grams of salt per day (about one teaspoon).

He added that research has shown that Nigerians consume more than double the stipulated daily sodium intake.

Balogun said the ministry will launch the national sodium reduction guidelines aimed at reducing salt content across all food categories.

“Salt is not the enemy. Salt contains sodium, an essential mineral that supports vital body functions such as nerve activity, muscle movement, and fluid balance. However, the concern lies in excessive consumption, not in salt itself,” he said.

“We wish to state clearly: Doctors do not lie. Nigeria’s health professionals are trained to offer evidence-based guidance rooted in decades of scientific research and patient care.

“The presence of regulated sodium compounds in certain medications is not equivalent to dietary salt (sodium chloride) and is safe when prescribed appropriately.”