Nigeria: Health Ministry Backs Institute Lead-Free Drive to Protect Children
[Leadership] The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has backed the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (ICCON) in the push for a lead-free chemical industry, citing lead exposure risks to children and vulnerable groups.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in Nigeria has endorsed the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (ICCON) in their campaign for a lead-free chemical industry. This decision stems from concerns over the harmful effects of lead exposure on children and vulnerable groups. The endorsement was announced at ICCON's 21st Mandatory Continuing Professional Development workshop in Abuja.
ICCON's Director of Chemical Management, Mr. S.O. Fatai, emphasized the importance of the theme "Towards a Lead-Free Chemical Industry in Nigeria: Advancing Safer Chemistry, Sustainable Alternatives and Regulatory Compliance." He highlighted the urgency of addressing lead exposure, which poses a significant risk to public health, especially for children and other vulnerable populations.
Fatai called on ICCON members to continue providing technical leadership and professional expertise to promote a safer and more sustainable chemical industry in Nigeria. The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, also endorsed ICCON's initiative, praising the institute's role in contributing to national development, public health, industrial growth, and environmental sustainability.
She noted that training programs like the MCPD series are crucial for keeping chemists updated on emerging trends and ethical standards in the profession. Kachollom described the induction and fellowship investiture as one of the highest honors the Institute bestows upon its members.
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