Lead poisoning: CAP warns Nigerians against choosing paints based on price, colour

By** Temitope Aina**

Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) PLC has warned Nigerians against choosing paints solely on the basis of colour, finish and price, stressing that exposure to toxic substances, particularly lead, grave health risks, especially to children.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Olalekan Aluko, who raised the alarm during the 2026 International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, called for stricter enforcement of safety standards and greater public awareness of the dangers associated with lead-containing paints.

The awareness week, held from October 18 to 24 under the theme, “From Detection to Prevention,” provided the platform for CAP PLC to launch its “Look Beyond the Colour” campaign, aimed at encouraging consumers to prioritise safety when purchasing paints.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there is no safe level of lead exposure, as the toxic metal can cause irreversible neurological damage, learning disabilities and behavioural disorders in children.

Exposure can occur when deteriorating lead-containing paint peels or produces contaminated dust, particularly during building renovations.

Aluko said consumers must begin to consider the potential health implications of products used in homes, schools and workplaces rather than concentrating exclusively on their appearance and affordability.

“When choosing paint, people naturally consider the colour, the finish, and the cost,” he said.

“These are important, but safety deserves the same attention. The products used in our homes, schools, and workplaces should contribute to healthier environments for the people who live, learn, and work in them.”

He maintained that eliminating lead exposure required collective action involving manufacturers, regulators, retailers, painters, building professionals and consumers.

“Preventing lead exposure is a shared responsibility. Manufacturers, regulators, retailers, painters, building professionals, and consumers all have a role to play,” Aluko said.

As part of its intervention, CAP PLC disclosed that its Painters Academy had trained more than 8,000 professional painters across 17 states in hazard identification and safe handling of painting materials.

The company also announced a partnership with the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) to provide accredited qualifications for artisans and promote professional standards in the industry.

CAP PLC reaffirmed its commitment to paint formulations with no added lead and urged other domestic manufacturers to eliminate toxic additives from their products.

It maintained that stronger regulation, responsible manufacturing and informed consumer choices were essential to reducing lead exposure and protecting public health.

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