A viral video featuring Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, the influential founder of Loveworld Incorporated (Christ Embassy), has ignited a public health controversy, prompting the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to issue an urgent advisory cautioning Nigerians against excessive salt consumption.
In the widely shared clip, Oyakhilome claimed that Africans have been “deliberately discouraged” from consuming salt as part of a scheme to foster dependence on sodium-based medications. “They told you not to take salt so that you can buy their drugs—drugs that contain sodium,” he declared during a recent church service. “Salt is not your enemy.”
The remarks have sparked heated debates across social media, with some followers embracing the pastor’s advice while others raised alarms about its potential dangers. In response, the health ministry has stepped in to set the record straight, warning that indiscriminate salt intake could lead to severe health consequences.
Ministry Sounds the Alarm
In a statement signed by Alaba Balogun, Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, the ministry emphasized the need to combat misinformation that could jeopardize public health. “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 read. “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 clarified that while sodium, a component of salt, is essential for nerve and muscle function, excessive consumption is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases. “High salt consumption is associated with high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke, and kidney disease, among others,” he warned, citing well-established medical evidence.
The ministry also pointed to international guidelines, noting that the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a maximum of 5 grams of salt per day—roughly one teaspoon—for adults. Exceeding this limit, experts say, can have devastating effects on long-term health.
A Call for Caution
The ministry’s advisory comes at a time when misinformation on health matters is spreading rapidly through social media platforms. The viral nature of Oyakhilome’s video, which has garnered thousands of views and shares, underscores the influence of prominent figures in shaping public behavior.
“We urge Nigerians to seek health guidance from certified professionals and to approach advice lacking scientific evidence with skepticism,” Balogun added. The ministry also encouraged the public to consult healthcare providers for personalized dietary recommendations, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions like hypertension or kidney disease.
The Bigger Picture
This incident highlights the growing challenge of balancing respect for cultural and religious voices with the need to promote evidence-based health practices. As Nigeria grapples with rising rates of lifestyle-related diseases, the ministry’s swift response signals a commitment to safeguarding public health in the face of conflicting narratives.
For now, the message is clear: moderation is key, and when it comes to salt, a little goes a long way. Nigerians are advised to stick to WHO guidelines and consult trusted medical sources to stay informed and healthy.
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