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Nigeria’s Alarming Skin-Lightening Epidemic: Health Minister Decries Rising Usage and Unveils Regulatory Efforts

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Nigeria’s Alarming Skin-Lightening Epidemic: Health Minister Decries Rising Usage and Unveils Regulatory Efforts

Nigeria’s Alarming Skin-Lightening Epidemic: Health Minister Decries Rising Usage and Unveils Regulatory Efforts

 

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, has expressed deep concern over the increasing use of skin-lightening products (SLPs) among Nigerians and Africans at large, despite their well-documented harmful effects.

Speaking at a high-level regional workshop in Gabon on eliminating lightening cosmetic products, Salako highlighted the alarming prevalence of skin-bleaching practices, particularly in Africa, where societal beauty standards often favor lighter skin tones.

Nigeria: The World’s Skin-Bleaching Capital?

Nigeria has been infamously dubbed “the world capital of skin bleaching,” with the World Health Organization estimating that 77% of Nigerian women use skin-lightening products—the highest rate globally. According to Salako, this reflects a deep cultural and societal preference for lighter skin tones, which is reinforced by peer pressure and media influences.

Men, too, play a significant role in this epidemic. Salako noted that men not only use these products but also contribute to societal pressures that compel women to bleach their skin.

The Minister cited research indicating that awareness of skin bleaching is widespread, with over 76% of Nigerians familiar with the practice. However, misconceptions persist, as many believe that “toning” is a safer alternative, despite its equally harmful effects.

The Hidden Dangers of Skin-Lightening Products

Skin-lightening products often contain harmful substances, including mercury, hydroquinone, steroids, and heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium. These ingredients pose severe risks, ranging from skin damage to organ toxicity and even cancer.

Despite these dangers, the appeal of these products remains strong, driven by societal perceptions of beauty and fashion. Studies among university students reveal skin-bleaching prevalence rates of 62.4% to 64.9%, with many young people believing it enhances their attractiveness.

Government Action and Regulatory Framework

In response to this growing public health crisis, the Nigerian government is taking proactive steps to curb the use of harmful skin-lightening products. Dr. Salako revealed that the country is developing a National Policy on Cosmetics to ensure the safety and quality of cosmetic products sold within its borders.

Existing measures include:

  • The Cosmetic Products (Prohibition of Bleaching Agents) Regulations 2019, which ban harmful agents like mercury and limit hydroquinone concentration to 2%.
  • Market Surveillance: The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) conducts regular inspections and removes unregistered, counterfeit, or hazardous products from circulation.
  • Sensitization Campaigns: The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has launched advocacy and education programs, targeting both urban and grassroots communities, to raise awareness of the risks associated with SLPs.
  • MedSafety App: This tool enables Nigerians to report adverse reactions to cosmetic products, improving the monitoring and enforcement of safety standards.

A new guideline on the safety assessment of cosmetic products is also in development, aiming to align Nigeria’s regulatory framework with international safety standards.

A Call for Behavioral Change

Dr. Salako emphasized the need for targeted public health campaigns to address the root causes of skin-lightening practices. He called for an inclusive approach that not only focuses on women but also involves men, who often influence these decisions.

“Our campaigns must address the societal perceptions of beauty and educate people on the harmful effects of skin-lightening products,” Salako said.

Looking Ahead

As Nigeria grapples with this widespread health and social issue, the government remains committed to promoting safe cosmetic practices and challenging harmful beauty standards. Through stricter regulations, public education, and community engagement, Nigeria aims to reduce the prevalence of skin-bleaching and foster a healthier, more inclusive definition of beauty.

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UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin

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UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin.

May 30, 2026 – As the month of June gathers momentum, the *United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA*, a sovereign nation has unveiled a series of vital guidelines and preparatory packages to ensure citizens and stakeholders run the *ATC Exchangeability* process effectively.

In an official update, the *President of Atlantic Crown Limited, Empress of Attica Empire UKA*, confirmed that the *Final Test Run of ATC Exchangeability* is scheduled for the month of June 2026. The exercise marks a key phase ahead of the *Official Exchangeability Window, set to run from July 2026 to February 2027*.

### Key Highlights from the Presidential Briefing
1. *Final Test Run – June 2026*
The test run is designed to validate systems, procedures, and user readiness before full activation. Citizens, partners, and designated participants are urged to follow all official advisories released by UKA authorities during this period.

2. *Official Exchangeability Period*
Following the successful completion of the June test run, the Official Exchangeability will commence in july 2026 and we are Expecting Full Exchange ability between July Ending, 2026 to February 2026.

UKA stated that detailed schedules, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions will be communicated progressively through verified UKA channels.

3. *Benefiting Packages for June*
In line with UKA’s commitment to citizen empowerment, the month of June will feature “benefiting packages” aimed at education, preparation, and seamless onboarding. These packages are intended to equip the people of UKA with the knowledge and tools needed for effective participation.

4. *Commitment to Transparency*
Addressing the nation, the Empress of Attica Empire UKA emphasized:
_“Final Test Run of ATC Comes up in The Month of June, As We Prepare For The Official Exchangeability, Between July 2026 To Feb 2027. All Information Will Be Communicated.”_
UKA reaffirmed that only information released through official UKA platforms should be regarded as authoritative.

The United Kingdom of Atlantis is encouraging all citizens, representatives, and interested parties to remain alert to official communications, attend designated orientation sessions, and avoid unofficial sources. UKA’s dedication to order, clarity, and the collective benefit of its people as the nation moves into this significant phase.

For updates, advisories, and participation guidelines, citizens are advised to monitor official UKA communication channels.

United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA, is a sovereign nation, committed to national development, citizen welfare, and structured economic participation through initiatives such as ATC Exchangeability.

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Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements

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Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements

 

 

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold economic reforms and improved security efforts as the President marks three years in office.

 

 

 

 

In a goodwill message on Thursday to commemorate Tinubu’s third anniversary as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Buratai said the administration had taken courageous decisions that would leave a lasting impact on Nigeria’s development.

 

 

 

According to him, President Tinubu broke a long-standing cycle that had hindered national growth by removing fuel subsidy and implementing foreign exchange reforms aimed at stabilising the naira and strengthening the economy.

 

 

 

 

He noted that the reforms were beginning to yield positive results, citing the global acceptance of Nigerian debit cards, the gradual revival of local refineries, access to student loans, and ongoing road and infrastructure projects across the country.

 

 

 

“The FCT Administration has also recorded remarkable progress, completing major road projects that remained unfinished for over 16 years,” Buratai stated.

 

 

 

The former army chief also praised the administration’s security efforts, saying renewed military offensives against insurgents, terrorists and bandits had led to notable successes across various parts of the country.

 

 

 

He specifically lauded recent joint operations involving Nigerian and United States forces against Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North-East, as well as intensified counter-banditry operations in the North-West.

 

 

 

 

“We have seen notorious ISWAP commanders being neutralised. I congratulate the Commander-in-Chief, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police and heads of intelligence agencies for their efforts,” he said.

 

 

 

 

Buratai, however, acknowledged that challenges remained, stressing the need for more aggressive military operations and intelligence-driven strategies in the coming year.

 

 

 

 

While urging Nigerians to remain hopeful, he said celebrating the President’s achievements did not amount to ignoring the difficulties facing the nation.

 

 

 

 

“Because you truly care, you have shown the courage to trade short-term comfort for long-term hope. Nigerians need your reassurances, and that is why we remain optimistic and full of confidence,” he added.

The retired military officer reaffirmed his support for the Tinubu administration and expressed confidence that the foundation being laid by the government would deliver a brighter future for the country.

 

He also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom, strength and good health for the President as he continues to lead Nigeria.

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NUT Raises Alarm Over Continued Captivity of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers

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NUT Raises Alarm Over Continued Captivity of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers

NUT Raises Alarm Over Continued Captivity of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers

 

 

The Nigeria Union of Teachers has expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted during an attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

 

 

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Oyo State wing of the union described the situation as increasingly distressing, particularly following the emergence of a video allegedly released by the abductors showing the victims pleading for their freedom.

 

 

The union said the footage had heightened fears over the welfare of the abducted pupils and teachers, describing their ordeal as heartbreaking and unacceptable.

 

NUT Raises Alarm Over Continued Captivity of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers

According to the NUT, no child or teacher deserves to be subjected to such traumatic experiences, adding that the prolonged captivity of the victims has continued to inflict psychological pain on their families, colleagues and the wider education community.

 

 

 

The union called on the Federal Government, Oyo State Government and relevant security agencies to intensify efforts towards securing the immediate and safe release of the victims.

 

 

“This is not a moment for hesitation. It is a moment for coordinated, intelligence-driven efforts to ensure the immediate and safe release of all abducted pupils and teachers,” the statement read.

 

 

While acknowledging ongoing interventions by security agencies and government authorities, the union stressed that time was of the essence, warning that every additional day in captivity deepens the trauma suffered by the victims.

 

 

The NUT urged security operatives to strengthen surveillance, improve community intelligence gathering and deploy all necessary operational and diplomatic measures to facilitate the rescue of the abductees.

 

 

It also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to support rescue efforts by providing credible information that could assist security agencies.

 

 

 

“The safety of our children and teachers must remain a collective priority,” the union stated.

 

 

Reaffirming its support for the families of the victims, the NUT pledged continued solidarity and prayers while advocating safer learning environments across the country.

 

 

The statement was jointly signed by the Chairman of the Oyo State NUT, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the Secretary, Comrade Salami Olukayode.

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