THE WHAT? Nigeria has approved its first national policy on cosmetics safety and health, establishing a framework to regulate the cosmetics sector.

THE DETAILS Launched at the 66th National Council on Health, the policy introduces a national system governing how cosmetic products are manufactured, imported, sold, used and disposed of. It aligns with key national and international frameworks, including the National Chemical Safety Policy and the Minamata Convention on Mercury.

The policy will be implemented across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory and introduces measures such as stronger regulatory oversight, a national early warning system for harmful products, and improvements to the cosmetics value chain.

The move comes as Nigeria’s cosmetics market exceeds US$7.8 billion, but safety concerns persist, including studies showing high levels of lead and other harmful substances in some products. The policy is supported by organisations including the World Health Organization (WHO) and aims to improve surveillance, enforcement and consumer awareness.

THE WHY? The policy aims to protect public health, improve product safety and strengthen regulation in response to growing concerns over harmful ingredients and informal market practices.

Source: WTO