Nigeria Adopts First National Policy to Strengthen Cosmetics Safety After Two Decades of Delays

Nigeria has officially approved its inaugural national policy on cosmetics safety and health, marking a significant milestone after nearly twenty years of stalled efforts. The policy was unveiled during the Sixty-sixth National Council on Health meeting held in Calabar. This comprehensive framework aims to regulate the manufacturing, importation, sale, use, and disposal of cosmetic products across the nation.

Aligning with National Health Priorities

The newly established policy aligns with several key government initiatives, including the National Strategic Health Development Plan II, the National Chemical Safety Policy, and the National Environmental Health Action Plan. It also supports the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and reinforces the country’s commitments under the International Health Regulations and the Minamata Convention on Mercury.

By enhancing regulatory oversight and surveillance, the policy aims to bolster health security, safeguard consumers, and promote economic diversification. Its implementation will span all thirty-six states and the Federal Capital Territory, addressing local health priorities.

Everyday Products, Real Health Risks

Cosmetics play a vital role in the daily lives of millions of Nigerians, yet many consumers remain unaware of the ingredients in the products they use. Amina Yusuf, a shop attendant in the Tarauni local government area of Kano State, reported experiencing skin irritation after using a product marketed as “natural toning oil.” She expressed her surprise, stating that she believed the product was safe due to its organic label. A health worker later informed her that it likely contained harmful chemicals.

In the Kura local government area, residents noted that some vendors repackage creams without proper labeling. One community member shared that a neighbor developed rashes after using a mixture purchased at a local market, emphasizing that many people buy what they can afford due to limited access to regulated shops.

In Sabon Gari market, an expectant mother named Gloria Okafor discovered during an antenatal visit that a cream she had been using for stretch marks might contain heavy metals. She remarked on her diligence regarding food and medicine during her pregnancy, stating, “I never imagined body cream could be a risk.” These accounts highlight broader issues, including limited consumer awareness, informal distribution channels, and economic pressures that contribute to the prevalence of unregulated products.

The Scale of the Problem

Recent assessments, both national and global, have underscored the safety concerns within Nigeria’s cosmetics sector. The industry has evolved into a dynamic and increasingly sophisticated market, valued at over US$ 7.8 billion. In contrast, the global cosmetics market is estimated to exceed US$ 429.2 billion, presenting both economic opportunities and regulatory challenges, particularly for low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria.

Since 2022, Nigeria has registered nearly 9,000 cosmetic products that comply with national regulatory standards, overseen by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control. However, toxicological evidence raises alarms. Studies have identified over 100 known carcinogens and at least 15 endocrine-disrupting chemicals in cosmetic formulations globally. In Nigeria, a study in Anambra State revealed that 62% of tested cosmetic products contained lead, with concentrations ranging from 0.10 to 42.12 mg/kg, exceeding the World Health Organization’s permissible limit of 10 mg/kg. Additional investigations in Ibadan and Lagos confirmed elevated levels of cadmium, lead, and nickel in personal care products.

These findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced surveillance, increased consumer awareness, and stricter enforcement to protect public health.

Why Regulation Matters

Research in Nigeria has revealed concerning levels of lead, cadmium, and other hazardous substances in various cosmetic products. These chemicals pose significant health risks, including kidney damage, skin issues, and complications during pregnancy.

Market surveillance efforts in Kurmi market, located in Kano Municipal local government area, have uncovered widespread mislabeling and repackaging practices. An officer from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Audu Tanimu, noted that some products are intentionally labeled to evade scrutiny, yet laboratory tests reveal the presence of restricted substances. Although enforcement efforts are ongoing, informal supply chains complicate traceability.

Turning Vision into Reality

After years of advocacy for a national cosmetics policy, the World Health Organization collaborated with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, state governments, Resolve to Save Lives, civil society, and industry stakeholders to actualize this vision. The WHO provided technical guidance, reviewed evidence, facilitated partner meetings, and helped strengthen surveillance and reporting systems. This initiative builds on years of collaboration aimed at improving chemical safety and enhancing core capacities under the International Health Regulations.

Funding for this initiative was provided by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and Resolve to Save Lives.

Key Changes Ahead

The new policy outlines three primary areas of action:

• Regulatory Oversight and Governance: A unified national system will ensure that all cosmetic products adhere to safety and quality standards, improving coordination among various agencies.

• Cosmetics Vigilance and Health Intelligence: A national early warning system will facilitate the rapid detection of harmful products, enabling quicker public health responses.

• Strengthening the Cosmetics Value Chain: The policy promotes safer manufacturing practices and responsible trade. It also aligns with opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area, supporting local industry growth while safeguarding workers and consumers.

These changes are anticipated to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, decrease the incidence of cosmetic-related health complications, and enhance consumer confidence.

A Collective Effort

Implementation of the policy will commence across all states and the Federal Capital Territory. The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, state governments, civil society, and private sector actors will spearhead the rollout. The WHO and Resolve to Save Lives will continue to support government initiatives aimed at strengthening surveillance, raising awareness, and promoting safer markets.

This significant development reflects the collaborative efforts of government entities, regulators, communities, and partners working toward a unified goal: protecting Nigerians from harmful exposures and enhancing national health security.

As reported by www.zawya.com.