Health and Lifestyle
FG Commissions National Cosmetics Safety Working Group, Begins Enforcement Nationwide
The Federal Government has inaugurated a National Cosmetics Safety Management Technical Working Group aimed at addressing health risks associated with cosmetic products while supporting industry growth and innovation.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, raised concerns over the presence of toxic substances such as formaldehyde and heavy metals in many cosmetic products, warning that they pose serious risks to vital organs in the human body.
Kachollom, who was represented by her Special Adviser, Dr. Dogara Okara, explained that the policy—approved and formally launched at the 66th National Council on Health—provides a comprehensive national framework to ensure that cosmetic products manufactured, imported, distributed, and used in Nigeria comply with approved safety standards and align with global best practices.
Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Director, Household Cosmetics at NAFDAC, Prince Nsofor, disclosed that enforcement of the policy has already commenced, covering both imported and locally manufactured cosmetic products.
Other stakeholders at the event, including representatives of the World Health Organisation, highlighted the dangers associated with informal cosmetic production, noting that many operators lack adequate knowledge of safety procedures and often use harmful substances such as lead and mercury.
Implementation of the cosmetics safety policy is scheduled to span five years, from 2026 to 2030. Authorities say the period will usher in improved regulation, safer cosmetic products, increased consumer awareness, and stronger enforcement mechanisms across the country.