Prioritise Safety When Buying Paint, Firm Urges Nigerians

Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) Plc has urged Nigerians to look beyond colour, finish and price when choosing paint for their homes, schools and workplaces and prioritise product safety to prevent lead exposure.

The call was made in Lagos, as the world marks International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (ILPPW) 2026, observed from October 18 to 24 under the theme ‘From Detection to Prevention’.

The global campaign highlights the importance of identifying sources of lead exposure and strengthening preventive measures to protect public health, particularly that of children.

The company advised buyers to seek reliable product information, understand the safety considerations associated with their choices and select products suitable for their intended applications.

The company also called on manufacturers, retailers, painters and building professionals to promote responsible product selection and support efforts to prevent lead exposure across Nigeria.

Lead exposure remains a significant public health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is no known safe level of lead exposure. Lead can affect multiple body systems, with children particularly vulnerable to its effects on brain development, learning and behaviour. Exposure can occur through several sources, including lead-containing paint, particularly when painted surfaces deteriorate or are disturbed during renovation.

Speaking on the importance of paint safety, the managing director and chief executive officer of CAP, Olalekan Aluko said, “when choosing paint, people naturally consider the colour, the finish and the cost. 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 added, “manufacturers, regulators, retailers, painters, building professionals and consumers all have a role to play, from ensuring product safety and providing reliable information to making informed decisions about the products used in our homes and workplaces.”