Awareness on hypertension and other non-communicable diseases took centre stage in Abuja as the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, alongside stakeholders, organised a road walk to commemorate World Hypertension Day 2026.
Health experts say despite the growing prevalence of hypertension in Nigeria, only a small percentage of the population knows their status or undergoes regular medical checkups.
According to data, About one in every three Nigerians is living with hypertension, making it one of the country’s leading public health concerns.
Statistics show that between 17 and 35 percent of people living with hypertension are aware of their condition. Even among those receiving treatment, only about 15 percent maintain regular blood pressure monitoring and control.
Experts say the poor level of awareness and management has continued to contribute to rising cases of complications and deaths linked to the disease.
To address the challenge and encourage early detection, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with partners, organised an awareness road walk in
Abuja as part of activities marking World Hypertension Day 2026.
Stakeholders at the event described hypertension as a “silent killer” that should never be ignored, stressing the importance of routine medical checks and early treatment.
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They also warned that hypertension affects people across all age groups and urged Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles through proper diet, regular exercise, reduced salt intake, and avoidance of harmful habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Editor: Roluke Ogundele
