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Dangote Petroleum Refinery Reorganisation: Commitment To Safety, Integrity , Workers’ Rights

 
Dangote Refinery Reorganisation: Commitment to Safety, Integrity
 
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery have  clarify on the recent reports concerning the ongoing reorganisation within its facility.
In a press statement from the company said that this exercise is not arbitrary. “It has become necessary to safeguard the refinery from repeated acts of sabotage that have raised safety concerns and affected operational efficiency”.
“The foregoing decision was taken in the best interest of the Refinery as result of intermittent cases of sabotage in the various units of the Refinery with dire consequences on human life and related safety concerns”.
“We remain vigilant to our internal systems and vulnerabilities to ensure the long-term stability of this strategic national asset. It is imperative to protect the refinery for the benefit of Nigerians, our partners across Africa, and the thousands of people whose livelihoods depend on it”.
“Over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively in our Petroleum Refinery, at present. Only a very small number of staff were affected, as we continue to recruit Nigerian talent through our various graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire recruitment process”.
“We recognise and uphold internationally accepted labour principles, including the right of every worker to freely decide whether or not to join a union. Our commitment to workers’ rights is unwavering”.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery exists to serve Nigerians, to strengthen Africa’s energy independence, and to create decent, sustainable jobs. We will continue to work in partnership with our employees, regulators, and stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency, and accountability, it stated.
Online Poster by — September 27, 2025 in Energy
Tax Stamp Plan Will Hurt Consumers, Says MAN

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has cautioned the Federal Government against the proposed introduction of a Tax Stamp System for excisable products, warning that the policy would increase production costs, harm consumers, and contravene the Nigeria Tax Act 2025.

In a statement by the Director-General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, said the association appreciated the government’s drive to modernise tax administration, but the proposed measure “risks clawing back the reliefs granted under the 2025 Tax Act.”

Ajayi-Kadir said, “The introduction of a tax stamp system amounts to giving with one hand and taking back with the other. It would impose a hidden tax on industries under the guise of compliance, with small and medium-sized industries bearing disproportionate burdens.”

He stated that the measure would increase compliance costs that producers and importers would ultimately pass on to consumers, thereby worsening inflationary pressures.

Ajayi-Kadir observed that introducing a Tax Stamp System for excisable products could push households toward cheaper illicit products and erode the competitiveness of Nigerian manufacturers under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

DG noted that international experience had shown that tax stamps deliver limited revenue gains while creating heavy compliance and operational bottlenecks. He pointed to studies in Ghana and Uganda which found that stamp systems imposed significant cost burdens without curbing illicit trade.

Ajayi-Kadir stressed, “Paper-based tax stamps are prone to falsification, making it difficult for consumers and retailers to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit goods. Digital stamps, on the other hand, cut productivity by up to 40 per cent and have not reduced illicit trade.

He also argued that Nigeria already had home-grown digital tools such as the Customs’ B’Odogwu Automated Excise Register System and the Federal Inland Revenue Service’s e-invoicing platform, which provide real-time visibility of excise operations. “These tools already give the government the visibility that tax stamps claim to provide, without adding redundant layers,” he said.

MAN warned that introducing tax stamps would undermine the government’s efforts to promote local manufacturing and job creation. The association listed risks including increased circulation of counterfeit goods, reduced consumer demand, potential job losses, and deterrence of new investment in the sector.

Ajayi-Kadir added, “At a time when operators are grappling with rising excise rates, high energy prices, inadequate power supply, and high inflation, the additional burden of implementing tax stamps is a serious threat to industrial sustainability.”

He urged the government to reject any persuasion to roll out the system “in whatever guise or form” until a comprehensive stakeholder engagement and impact assessment were conducted.

Instead, MAN called on the government to strengthen existing digital fiscal tools and border enforcement, while adopting smarter, cost-effective alternatives such as targeted audits and risk-based compliance checks.

Ajayi-Kadir concluded, “Tax stamps often hinder local industry, erode gains in tax simplification, and yield limited revenue impact. The government should strengthen existing systems rather than impose undue burdens on manufacturers and consumers

Online Poster by — September 27, 2025 in Industry
CBN’s Banking Reforms : Shareholders Endorse Providus–Unity Business Combination

By Winifred Bosa
Shareholders endorse Providus–Unity business combination, boosting confidence in CBN's banking reforms |
Rising from a court-ordered Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on Friday, the shareholders and Boards of Directors of Providus Bank and Unity Bank have given their resounding approval to proceed with the business combination of the two financial institutions.
The nod to go ahead by the boards and shareholders of the two institutions signifies a moment of national significance for Nigeria’s banking industry—one that reflects resilience, foresight, and collective responsibility.
In a statement made available to the press, Providus Bank and Unity Bank also wish to express profound appreciation to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for its foresight, determination, and commitment to building a stronger financial system. CBN, by enabling this transaction, has reinforced its vision of a sector anchored on resilience and customer confidence. This regulatory support is not only shaping healthier banks, but also inspiring the confidence of businesses, investors, and everyday Nigerians that our financial system is ready to serve as a cornerstone for sustainable growth.
Strengthening Confidence in the Financial System
The vote is also a signal to the markets, to regulators, and to the wider public that Nigeria’s banking sector remains robust and forward-looking. In affirming this merger, shareholders have helped to reinforce the confidence that underpins economic stability. It is a statement that Nigerian banks are prepared to adapt, consolidate, and grow in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s vision of a stronger and more resilient financial system—and ultimately, its aspiration to support Nigeria’s transition into a trillion-dollar economy.
Scale, Reach, and Capacity
With a starting solid Capital Adequacy Ratio, the emerging entity will have the scale to compete, the reach to serve every part of the federation, and the capacity to support businesses, households, and government at every level.
The enlarged bank will immediately rank high among the banks with the most extensive branch networks in Nigeria, with approximately 230 branches nationwide. Unity Bank has served its customers faithfully with a proud legacy, while Providus Bank has earned a reputation for innovation, world-class digital banking platforms, and customer-centric service excellence. The enlarged bank will provide the backbone for businesses to thrive and communities to prosper.
Safeguarding Jobs, Investing in People
The merger of the two institutions when completed secures jobs, protects livelihoods, and creates new opportunities within a bigger, stronger, and future-oriented institution. The success of this merger rests not only on systems and balance sheets but on people—and their contribution will be safeguarded and celebrated.
“This historic transaction is not simply about numbers; it is about confidence in the Nigeria financial system. By combining Providus Bank and Unity Bank, we are creating an institution of scale and substance- that will give confidence to customers, strength to the financial system and create opportunity for our people,”
 The statement added.
A Bank for the Future
This merger ushers in a new chapter: a bank that is bigger in ambition, broader in reach, and stronger in capacity. It will embody the values of innovation, empathetic relationship management, customer focus, and integrity.
With enhanced technology platforms, deeper capital strength, and a commitment to customer service, the enlarged bank will stand as both a guardian of stability and a catalyst for growth in Nigeria’s journey toward a trillion-dollar economy.
Online Poster by — September 27, 2025 in Capital Market
PHOTONEWS

L-R: Eric Balogun, Independent Director, Emi Faloughi, Director, Kayode Adigun, Executive Director, Finance & Corporate Services, Oloruntomiloba Olagunju, Company Secretary, Abimbola Oguntunde, Chairman, Ugochi Odemelam, Executive Director, Marketing & Business Development and Shedrach Odoh, Director, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc at the 30th Annual General Meeting of the Company held at the Baylounge on Admiralty Way, Lagos on Thursday, September 25, 2025.
L-R : Oloruntomiloba Olagunju, Company Secretary, Kayode Adigun, Executive Director, Finance & Corporate Services Division, Emi Faloughi, Director, Eric Balogun, Independent Director, Abimbola Oguntunde, Chairman, Ugochi Odemelam, Executive Director, Marketing & Business Development Division, Soyinka Olaotan, MD/CEO and Shedrach Odoh, Director, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc at the 30th Annual General Meeting of the Company held at the Baylounge on Admiralty Way, Lagos on Thursday, September 25, 2025.
Online Poster by — September 26, 2025 in News

 

By Winifred Bosa

Nestlé Nigeria has reaffirmed its dedication to youth empowerment and skill development with the graduation of twenty young trainees from the 8th cohort of its Nestlé Technical Training Center, Agbara. This initiative is part of the broader Nestlé Needs YOUth program, a global commitment launched in 2013 with the goal of enabling 10 million young people worldwide to access economic opportunities by 2030.

 

Since its establishment in 2011, the Nestlé Technical Training Center, Agbara has invested more than ₦6 billion in equipping young Nigerians with hands-on technical and vocational skills. The program offers comprehensive training in food technology, engineering, and manufacturing operations, giving participants the practical expertise they need to thrive in today’s industrial landscape. By empowering youth with employable skills, the initiative not only supports individual growth but also contributes to Nigeria’s industrial capacity and sustainable economic development.

 

The latest graduates completed an intensive 18-month curriculum that blends theoretical and practical engineering education. Their training culminated in the prestigious City and Guilds of London Technicians’ Certification, significantly enhancing their employability in Nigeria and beyond.
Since its inception, the Nestlé Technical Training Center has trained more than 200 young professionals across its three locations: Agbara, Flowergate, and Abaji factories. Impressively, 95% of alumni have secured employment with Nestlé Nigeria, where they apply their technical knowledge in practical roles.

 

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director/CEO of Nestlé Nigeria, said:
“Each graduation ceremony is a true privilege because it allows us to witness firsthand the life-changing impact of the Nestlé Technical Training Center. Many of our graduates have gone on to build remarkable careers, including one who now serves as a Factory Engineer in Angola, and several others excelling as Engineering and Production Supervisors. From this class, five outstanding graduates will embark on an eight-week internship in Switzerland starting this October, under the framework of our Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Embassy of Switzerland in Nigeria.

There, they will sharpen their technical expertise and gain valuable global exposure. These achievements go far beyond individual success, they uplift families, strengthen communities, and contribute to Nigeria’s industrial growth.”
Highlighting the broader impact of the Technical Training Centers within the Nestlé Needs YOUth initiative, Mr. Shakiru Lawal, Country Human Resources Manager at Nestlé Nigeria, said:

 

“The Nestlé Technical Training Center is a cornerstone of Nestlé Needs YOUth, which empowers young people across Nigeria through four key pillars: employability, skills development, support, and access to opportunities. Beyond the training centers, our initiative includes programs such as the Nesternship Program, a virtual internship platform that allows young people to gain practical experience remotely; the Nestlé Youth Development Program, which provides training and mentorship to enhance employability; and our active participation in the Alliance for Youth Nigeria, a collaboration offering apprenticeships, traineeships, and job opportunities. Through these efforts, we reach an average of 25,000 young people annually, helping them build fulfilling careers and contribute to the growth of our communities.”

 

In a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by Adenike Aderonke, Director of Social and Labour Affairs, the Director-General Mr. Adewale Smatt Oyerinde of the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) praised the Center’s role in shaping future talent.

“This program reaffirms our belief that skills are the future of work, especially for young people in today’s competitive environment. To the graduands, I extend heartfelt congratulations. Strive for excellence in your endeavors, uphold values of consistency, and make a positive impact in your chosen fields.”

Also present at the ceremony were His Royal Highness, the Alagbara of Agbara, Oba Lukman Jayeola Agunbiade, along with representatives from the communities.
“I am proud to see a program that gives our youth real skills and opportunities,” Oba Lukman Jayeola Agunbiade said. “It is especially wonderful to see young people from my community succeeding through this initiative. I encourage these graduates to lead by example and inspire others to make the most of education, training, and personal development.”

 

With every edition, the Nestlé Technical Training Centres continue to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial workforce, equipping young people with the skills to build sustainable careers and drive national growth.

About Nestle

Nestlé Nigeria is Africa’s top food and beverage company, known for its quality, excellence, and commitment to creating shared value. With a heritage of more than 63 years in Nigeria and its house-hold brands, the firm continues to ensure the availability and accessibility of nutritious food and beverage products. In addition, the firm supports the communities closest to its operations and takes action to safeguard the environment through sustainable business practices.

With over 2,300 direct employees, 3 factories and 7 branch offices across Nigeria, Nestlé produces and markets iconic brands including Maggi, Milo, Golden Morn, Nestlé Pure Life and Cerelac.

 

Online Poster by — September 25, 2025 in brands and Marketing
Polaris Bank Hosts Global Trade Forum To Strengthen Trade Relationships , Drive Growth

By Winifred Bosa

 

Polaris Bank, Nigeria’s leading digital retail, and commercial bank, on Tuesday hosted corporate customers in the non-oil sector at its Global Trade Forum. The event was designed to foster stronger stakeholder relationships, address trade-related challenges, and explore innovative solutions to drive business growth.

 

The forum, with the theme: “Trade Export: Partnering for Growth”, brought together key players in Nigeria’s trade and export ecosystem, including business leaders, exporters, regulators, Nigerian Customs and policy influencers. Participants engaged in robust discussions on the challenges and opportunities shaping the global trading landscape.

 

Speaking at the event, Polaris Bank Managing Director/CEO, Kayode Lawal, underscored the central role of trade as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth. He reaffirmed Polaris Bank’s commitment to delivering tailored solutions that empower Nigerian businesses to compete more effectively in international markets.

 

According to him, the purpose of the gathering was to address the real issues customers encounter in trade and export while identifying opportunities where Polaris Bank can provide practical, innovative solutions to support growth. He stressed that Polaris Bank sees itself not only as a financial institution but also as a trusted partner in progress and a driver of long-term value creation.

 

Also in attendance was Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Aondona Fanyama, who led a three-man delegation from the Nigerian Customs Service. He spoke extensively on the workings of the Nigeria Trade Portal B’odogwu and gave a practical demonstration of its application.
ACC Fanyama highlighted how the portal simplifies trade processes for exporters and importers, enhancing transparency, speed, and efficiency in cross-border trade. In a show of collaboration, he also pledged swift resolution to two participants at the forum who had been facing challenges with processing via the portal: thereby reinforcing the importance of such engagements in resolving real-time business concerns.

The event, held at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, provided a platform for meaningful dialogue on trade finance, export readiness, compliance, market access, and the role of digital platforms in facilitating cross-border transactions. It also offered participants the opportunity to interact directly with financial experts, policymakers, Customs officials, and industry leaders – opening doors for collaboration and sustainable growth.

The Bank had full representation of its executive management including Executive Directors for Retail, Commercial and Corporate & Investment Banking, Chris Ofikulu and Abimbola Ozomah with scores of strategic business leaders from across Treasury, Global Trade, Business Directorate, and Divisions.

 

Through the trade forum, Polaris Bank once again demonstrated its role as a forward-looking lender committed to supporting businesses, fostering economic development, and strengthening Nigeria’s participation in global markets. The Forum reinforces the Bank’s positioning as a catalyst for trade expansion and customer empowerment, ensuring that its clients have the financial products, relevant advisory support, and opportunities required to thrive in today’s competitive global economy.

Online Poster by — September 25, 2025 in Capital Market
Ukachukwu  Vow to take Anambra to long Expected  promised land. 

 
 
By Ebele  Ofodile 
Prince Nicholas Chukwujekwu Ukachukwu, the All Progressive Congress (APC) Governorship Candidate for  Anambra State in the 2025 election, has outlined ambitious  plans for the state’s  development, focusing  on agriculture, security, creation of job and overall governance.
He made this statement during an inauguration  of the APC Anambra  State  governorship  Campaign  Council, held at  secretariat Awka.
Ukachukwu proposes of leveraging artificial intelligence to boost agriculture ,productivity  and efficiency, a structured  agricultural  values chain involving  farmers, seed companies, infrastructure providers, funding agencies to enable  productivity  and support  farmers.” We are declaring a revolution in agric- chain in Anambra State, aiming to empower  farmers and drive economic  growth, ” he said.”
He acknowledges  insecurity  as a major challenge  hindering development  and investors, promising to tackle it, ensuring of protection of lives and properties of Ndi- Anambra, aiming to end killings and maiming in the state.
He emphasised on creation of job opportunities, empowering of youths, attracting foreign investors, improvising on infrastructure  like roads, connecting council areas to the state capital, focusing on major commercial hubs, expansion of health-care access, improving on education, promising  of all- inclusive government benefiting  all the 179 communities  in Anambra State.
Earlier in his speech, his running mate senator, uche Ekwunife  said, the party is the best to take anambra state to a new dimension.
In their separate speeches,the inauguration committee advised all hands to be on deck come November 8 2025 election,  stating that APC will be on seat at light house” we are going to put in our best and not to disappoint him.”
Online Poster by — September 25, 2025 in News
Experts To Discuss Seasonal Investing, As INVESTDATA Holds Q4 Master Class Saturday

 

Experts, traders and investors in the Nigerian capital market will on Saturday gather for the Q4 Master Class organised by Investdata Consulting Limited to brainstorm on the historic moves seen so far on the nation’s bourse in the ongoing fourth quarter and beyond.

 

The Master Class, which will hold virtually, will be facilitated by equity traders and analysts such as Dr Sylvester Anaba (Ph.D), a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers and Head, Research, United Capital Plc; Alhaji Kasimu Garba Kurfi, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer APT Securities & Funds Limited; Mr Abdul-Rasheed Momoh, Executive Director, Operations, TRW Stockbrokers Limited; and Ambrose Omordion, Chief Research Officer, Investdata Consulting.

 

According to a statement by the organisers, Dr. Anaba will take participants through “The Power Of Seasonal Investing In A Recovering Economy,” Alhaji Kurfi will speak to “New Actionable Trade Ideas & Strategies In Changing Stock Market;” while “Mastering Contemporary Technical Tools For Wealth Building In Any Market Cycle,” will be discussed by Mr Momoh.

 

On his part, Mr. Omordion is expected to discuss “time & Price Analyses For Money Making In a Dynamic Market.”
A statement by the organisers noted that the Master Class is for investors and traders “preparing for the big changes underway in the economy and, indeed, the NGX.”

The statement quoted Omordion as saying that timing is very critical today, especially given the inflow of the country’s macroeconomic data, and how they influenced the outcome of the last Monetary Policy Committee meetings held on Monday and Tuesday, which saw a rate cut, with the possibility of another slash at the November, as well as corporate earnings and the usual year-end activities.

This is is in addition to the expected fundamental shift in global capital flows if the world’s big central banks cut rates, a situation that will ignite new opportunities in the market.

The question, Omordion continued, is: “what does these portend for market players like you? Opportunities. But, that is, if you know where to look, which is why you should join us at the next edition of the Q4 Master Class.

“It is a 100% virtual (online) meeting on the ZOOM App, to enable you participate from the comfort of your home, anywhere you are across the world,” he said, assuring that the Master Class will help participants follow exact steps in real time, using the current volatility and happenings in the market.
The Master Class, he continued, is will offer cutting-edge strategies for equity trading on the NGX and other markets; while providing insights on the need to blend technical and fundamental analyses to gain insights for all experience levels- whether beginner to advanced.

The statement further assured that participants will learn how to filter market noise and identify the most opportune time to join any trade, besides “tradeable chart patterns and candlestick formations that signal real money-making opportunities; and how to buy right on the two sides of equity investing, whether fundamental vs technical; risk vs profit; buy vs sell; and bears vs bulls.”
Participants, the statement further stressed, will discuss five recommended stocks that beat inflation and delivered over 50% return within a 91-day period, and trading opportunities that will make the difference in December, and 2026.

 

“This is not just an event, it is your opportunity to gain actionable strategies, proven technical tools and market tested confidence from market experts and professionals. Don’t miss this opportunity,” Omordion noted.

Online Poster by — September 25, 2025 in News
PenCom DG Visits TUC, Agree Collaboration To Boost Pension Compliance

 

The Director General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) in advancing pension reforms and ensuring greater compliance with the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

 

Ms. Oloworaran gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to the TUC President, Comrade (Engr.) Festus Osifo, in Abuja on 24 September 2025. She was accompanied by the Acting Commissioner, Technical, Hon. Hafiz Kawu Ibrahim, and other top management staff of the Commission.

 

Speaking at the meeting, the PenCom DG acknowledged the invaluable role of the TUC as a member of the PenCom Governing Board and stressed that the relationship between the two organisations remained crucial to the sustainability of the CPS in Nigeria. She proposed more structured stakeholder engagements between PenCom and TUC to further strengthen the CPS and ensure greater compliance by employers of labour across the country.

 

Ms. Oloworaran emphasised that every employer of labour is obligated under the Pension Reform Act (PRA) 2014 to remit pension contributions on behalf of employees. She called for TUC’s support in enforcing compliance, noting that timely remittances were essential for securing workers’ financial stability in retirement.
The PenCom DG also spoke about reforms underway to address value erosion in pension savings. She said PenCom is working to mitigate the impact of inflation on pension assets.

 

Ms. Oloworaran disclosed that PenCom will unveil a revised Investment Regulation to expand opportunities in alternative investments and deliver better real returns. In addition, she said that the PenCom is working with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Federal Ministry of Finance on mechanisms that will allow pension investments in naira but generate returns in dollars, as part of efforts to safeguard retirement funds.

 

Furthermore, she said that PenCom would soon introduce a minimum pension for all retirees under the CPS to guarantee a more dignified retirement for Nigerians. This is being enabled by President Tinubu’s approval of a N758 billion bond, which comprises funding for the Pension Protection Fund (PPF), which would fund the minimum pension guarantee.

 

Responding, Comrade Osifo commended PenCom for its professionalism and effectiveness, describing it as one of the highly performing Institutions in Nigeria. He recounted his experience with PenCom staff during his time in the pension industry, praising their exceptional integrity, competence and dedication.

 

The TUC president pledged the union’s continued support for the Commission, particularly in promoting compliance among employers. He decried the practice of some employers who deduct workers’ pension contributions but fail to remit them, warning that such delays harm the eventual returns on retirement savings and often lead to industrial disputes.

 

Comrade Osifo further called for a review of the PRA 2014 to introduce greater flexibility in pension fund investments to better protect savings from inflation and exchange rate pressures.

 

The meeting ended on a positive note, with both PenCom and TUC resolving to work more closely together to deepen the CPS and secure the future of Nigerian workers.

Online Poster by — September 25, 2025 in Insurance and Pension
Global Health Warning: Over 1 Billion People Endangered by Uncontrolled Hypertension

By Winifred Bosa

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its second Global hypertension report, showing that 1.4 billion people lived with hypertension in 2024, yet just over one in five have it under control either through medication or addressing modifiable health risks.

The new report – released at an event co-hosted by WHO, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and Resolve to Save Lives during the 80th United Nations General Assembly – also reveals that only 28% of low-income countries report that all WHO-recommended hypertension medicines are generally available in pharmacies or primary care facilities.

Hypertension is a leading cause of heart attack, stroke, chronic kidney disease, and dementia. It is both preventable and treatable – but without urgent action, millions of people will continue to die prematurely, and countries will face mounting economic losses. From 2011 to 2025, cardiovascular diseases–including hypertension–are projected to cost low- and middle-income countries approximately US$ 3.7 trillion, equivalent to around 2% of their combined GDP.

“Every hour, over 1 000 lives are lost to strokes and heart attacks from high blood pressure, and most of these deaths are preventable,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “Countries have the tools to change this narrative. With political will, ongoing investment, and reforms to embed hypertension control in health services, we can save millions and ensure universal health coverage for all.”

“Uncontrolled high blood pressure claims more than 10 million lives every year, despite being both preventable and treatable. Countries that integrate hypertension care into universal health coverage and primary care are making real progress, but too many low- and middle-income countries are still left behind,” said Dr Kelly Henning, who leads the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Health Program. “Strong policies that raise awareness and expand access to treatment are critical to reducing cardiovascular disease and preventable deaths.”

Persistent barriers

Analysis of data from 195 countries and territories shows that 99 of them have national hypertension control rates below 20%. The majority of the affected people live in low- and middle-income countries, where health systems face resource constraints.

The report highlights major gaps in hypertension prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care. Key barriers include weak health promotion policies (on risk factors such as alcohol, tobacco use, physical inactivity, salt, and trans fats), limited access to validated blood pressure devices, lack of standardized treatment protocols and trained primary care teams, unreliable supply chains and costly medicines, inadequate financial protection for patients, and insufficient information systems to monitor trends.

Access to medicines: a cornerstone of progress

Blood pressure medication is one of the most cost-effective public health tools. Yet only 7 out of 25 (28%) of low-income countries report general availability of all WHO-recommended medicines, compared to 93% of high-income countries. The report explores the barriers and strategies for improving access to hypertension medication through better regulatory systems, pricing and reimbursement, procurement and supply chain management, and improved prescribing and dispensing of these medicines.

“Safe, effective, low-cost medicines to control blood pressure exist, but far too many people can’t get them,” said Dr Tom Frieden, President & CEO, Resolve to Save Lives. “Closing that gap will save lives — and save billions of dollars every year.”

Country-level progress

Despite barriers, progress is possible. Bangladesh, the Philippines, and South Korea have made significant progress by integrating hypertension care into universal health coverage (UHC), investing in primary care, and engaging communities:

Bangladesh increased hypertension control from 15% to 56% in some regions between 2019 and 2025 through embedding hypertension treatment services in its essential health service package and strengthening screening and follow-up care.
The Philippines has effectively incorporated the WHO’s HEARTS technical package into community-level services nationwide.
South Korea has integrated health reforms, including low costs for antihypertensive medications and limiting patient fees, which have resulted in a high rate of blood pressure control nationally: 59% in 2022.

WHO calls on all countries to embed hypertension control in UHC reforms. Implementing the measures recommended in the report could prevent millions of premature deaths and ease the massive social and economic toll of uncontrolled high blood pressure.

Online Poster by — September 24, 2025 in Health