Oluwafunbi Bello 
OGUN, Nigeria – Authorities in Ogun State launch an urgent public health audit after international reports raise alarms over possible lead poisoning in several communities, prompting blood testing of more than 500 residents.
The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research began fieldwork last week, collecting blood samples from pregnant women, nursing mothers, children and other residents previously identified as vulnerable to elevated lead exposure. The exercise follows a stratified scientific approach across mapped high-risk areas.
The intervention comes on the directive of Dapo Abiodun, who orders the study to be conducted independently to ensure transparency and public confidence in the outcome.
Government spokeswoman Titi Coker says the global attention generated by foreign media reports places the affected communities under intense scrutiny, compelling swift government action.
“Shortly after the reports emerged, officials from the ministries of health and environment visited the communities to allay fears and outline a clear monitoring, evaluation and response framework,” Coker says.
She adds that environmental assessments follow the temporary closure of facilities suspected to pose health risks, noting that some sites are later reopened after compliance reviews.
According to Coker, the Ministry of Health plans to introduce routine blood lead monitoring for workers in affected industrial zones, a policy experts say is critical in Nigeria’s largely under-regulated manufacturing corridors.
Confirming the process, NIMR Director-General Oladipo Obafunwa says a professional team is deployed in line with international scientific standards.
“We are working independently to deliver unbiased results, and laboratory analysis will be conducted with full integrity,” he says.
Local traditional ruler Oba Kazeem Gbadamosi welcomes the audit, praising what he calls prompt and transparent engagement, and pledges the community’s full cooperation.
Findings from the audit are expected to determine whether industrial activity poses a sustained public health threat — and whether regulatory or legal action will follow.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Otamere Gladness 
Chukwu Obinna