In Nigeria, the ominous shadow of climate change is extending its reach, impacting not just the environment but also the health and well-being of citizens. One of the most profound consequences is its potential to erode life expectancy, undermining years of progress in public health.
Recent research highlights a stark connection between climate change and health outcomes, particularly life expectancy. A study reveals that even a minor increase of 1°C in the annual average temperature could lead to a 0.44-year reduction in life expectancy at birth. Furthermore, a 0.10 rise in the composite climate change index—which includes temperature and rainfall—could result in a 0.5-year decrease in life expectancy.
Nigeria has seen commendable strides in raising life expectancy. Data from the Bureau of Statistics indicates that between 2020 and 2022, women’s life expectancy rose from 56 to 57 years, and men’s from 54 to 55.1 years.
However, these hard-earned gains are at risk of being reversed due to climate shocks such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves, which exacerbate disease outbreaks and strain public health systems.
The Climate-Food Bond
Climate change is also striking at the heart of Nigeria’s food security. Agrarian communities face decreased rainfall, leading to crop failures and food shortages. This has dire consequences for nutrition and food security, particularly among vulnerable populations like low-income families, women, children, and the elderly. A study in Lagos from 1998 to 2018 highlighted a significant decline in food crop production due to climate change, underscoring the severity of the issue.
Disease and Climate: A Deadly Duo
Rising temperatures create a hospitable environment for disease vectors such as mosquitoes, increasing the prevalence of malaria and dengue fever. Shifts in rainfall patterns—affecting both the amount and frequency—contribute to the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid. Communities with limited access to healthcare and sanitation suffer the most, further widening health disparities.
A Call for Urgent Action
The World Bank warns that climate change could slash Nigeria’s GDP by 6% to 30% by 2050, severely impeding human development and life expectancy improvements. To counteract these threats, Nigeria must prioritize climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.
According to a BusinessDay report, climate health resilience hinges on understanding diverse needs, involving stakeholders from primary to tertiary care levels.
Government and stakeholders should implement early detection systems for climate-induced disease outbreaks and launch educational and preventive initiatives at the community level. Ensuring access to primary healthcare services during extreme weather events and investing in the resilience of the healthcare workforce are critical steps in mitigating the climate’s impact on health.
Building Resilience
Strengthening the capacity of health workers to respond to climate shocks is essential. Policymakers must urgently coordinate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote sustainable development, and build resilience against climate-related events.
Addressing the impacts of climate change on health and life expectancy in Nigeria requires decisive and coordinated action at all levels. Only through comprehensive policies and strategies can the nation safeguard public health and ensure a sustainable future for its people.
Strategies To Mitigate Climate Impact On Health
1. Early Detection Systems: Establish early detection and warning systems for climate-induced disease outbreaks. This includes real-time monitoring of weather patterns and disease vectors.
2. Community Education: Launch climate education programs to inform local communities about the impacts of climate change and preventive health measures. This could involve workshops, public campaigns, and school curriculums focused on climate health literacy.
3. Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Promote and support sustainable farming techniques to combat the effects of decreased rainfall and other climate shocks. Encourage practices such as crop diversification, rainwater harvesting, and soil conservation.
Strengthen Healthcare Infrastructure
4. Access to Healthcare: Ensure that primary healthcare services remain accessible even during extreme weather events. This might involve mobile clinics, telemedicine, and reinforced health facilities.
5. Healthcare Workforce Resilience: Invest in training and resources for healthcare workers to better prepare them for the challenges posed by climate change. This includes emergency response training and the provision of adequate medical supplies.
6. Sanitation and Clean Water: Improve access to clean water and sanitation facilities, particularly in vulnerable communities, to prevent waterborne diseases.
Promote Sustainable Development
7. Green Energy Initiatives: Invest in renewable energy sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This includes solar, wind, and hydroelectric power projects.
8. Urban Planning: Develop climate-resilient infrastructure and housing, especially in flood-prone areas. Implement green building codes and urban planning regulations that consider climate risks.
Policy and Governance
9. National Climate Policy: Formulate and enforce a comprehensive national climate policy that integrates health considerations. This policy should outline clear adaptation and mitigation strategies.
10. Funding and Investment: Secure funding for climate adaptation projects through international grants, public-private partnerships, and national budget allocations. Prioritize investments in health infrastructure and sustainable practices.
11. Cross-Sector Collaboration: Foster collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, the private sector, and international organizations to address the multifaceted impacts of climate change on health.
Research and Innovation
12. Climate and Health Research: Support ongoing research into the impacts of climate change on health, focusing on local data and solutions tailored to Nigeria’s specific needs.
13. Innovative Technologies: Encourage the development and adoption of innovative technologies that can help mitigate the effects of climate change. Examples include drought-resistant crops and advanced water purification systems.
Public Engagement and Advocacy
14. Advocacy Campaigns: There must be intentionality with advocacy campaigns to raise public awareness about the health risks of climate change and the importance of taking action. Celebrities, influencers, and community leaders can be engaged to amplify the message.
15. Youth and Community Involvement: Involve youth and local communities in climate action initiatives. Support grassroots movements and local projects that address climate change and health.
By taking these steps, Nigeria can mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on health, safeguard life expectancy gains, and ensure a healthier, more resilient future for its population.
