The C-Circle Foundation for Sustainable Health and Environment has kicked off a nationwide campaign to stop the consumption of ’Nzu,’ a popular edible clay in Nigeria, identified as a hidden source of dangerous lead poisoning. The campaign launched during the 2025 International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week in Abuja, urges Nigerians to act now against lead exposure under the theme “No Safe Level: Act Now to End Lead Exposure.”
Dr. Chimere-May Ohajinwa, an environmental toxicologist and head of the foundation, explained that nzu poses serious chemical and hygiene risks since it is often sold uncovered and handled without proper sanitation. With lead poisoning still largely overlooked as a public health issue in Nigeria, the foundation’s radio campaigns revealed widespread ignorance about the dangers of eating nzu.
While some believe nzu helps digestion, experts highlight its toxic content, harmful especially to mothers and unborn babies. The campaign featured media appearances educating the public on lead’s health impacts and safer alternatives for nausea in pregnancy.
Dr. Ohajinwa called for community education, better regulation, and law enforcement to stop lead poisoning—a preventable silent killer. The foundation also urged the public to avoid uncertified products containing heavy metals and called on the government to strengthen health protection measures.
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