By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Lagos State Government has warned residents to prepare for possible extreme heat conditions and associated environmental and public health challenges as climate outlooks raise concerns over rising temperatures.
Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, gave the advisory, emphasising the need for residents to take preventive measures to protect their health.
Wahab explained that the strengthening El Niño climate pattern, alongside the seasonal transition into the dry season, could contribute to unusual temperature conditions, increased heat discomfort, dry spells, dust and deteriorating air quality.
He noted that although the intensity and local impact would depend on prevailing weather patterns, residents must take the emerging climate risks seriously.
“Lagos, as a densely populated and rapidly urbanising coastal city, could face heightened exposure to extreme heat,” Wahab said.
“The concentration of buildings, roads, and other heat-absorbing infrastructure, coupled with limited green spaces and inadequate ventilation in some neighbourhoods, could intensify temperatures in built-up areas.”
He warned that prolonged exposure to excessive heat could result in dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, adding that children, older persons, pregnant women, outdoor workers, street traders, construction workers, waste handlers and individuals with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable.
He called on families, employers, schools, and community leaders to pay special attention to vulnerable groups and ensure protective measures are in place.
Wahab cautioned that extreme heat could compound existing air-quality challenges during the dry season when dust and haze may increase respiratory irritation, noting that increased reliance on petrol – and diesel-powered generators could further worsen local air pollution.
He urged residents to avoid open burning of refuse, drink sufficient water regularly, wear lightweight and breathable clothing, seek shade and well-ventilated spaces, and reduce strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest periods of the day.
He also encouraged schools, markets, workplaces, and other public facilities to provide adequate ventilation, access to drinking water and shaded areas.
The Commissioner urged residents to remain alert to warning signs of heat-related illnesses including excessive sweating, dizziness, headache, weakness, nausea and muscle cramps, adding that anyone experiencing such symptoms should be moved to a cooler environment and given medical attention where necessary.
“Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness should be treated as medical emergencies requiring immediate attention. Residents with respiratory conditions are also advised to limit exposure to dusty environments and follow relevant health and air-quality advisories,” he said.
Wahab called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, environmental experts, health institutions, businesses and community stakeholders, and urged residents to support efforts to reduce urban heat by protecting trees, promoting tree planting, preserving green spaces and ensuring proper waste disposal.
He assured that the Ministry, through its relevant agencies, would continue to engage stakeholders and promote public awareness, while working with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet, the Lagos State Ministry of Health and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, to strengthen preparedness and response.
