Lagos doctors call for free water to combat heatwaves

Medical professionals in Nigeria are urging the Lagos State Government to implement interventions to mitigate the health risks of rising temperatures. Dr. Oluwole Olusanya, Chairman of the Medical Guild, has proposed the installation of free drinking-water kiosks and public water points at designated locations to assist vulnerable residents.

Experts warn that heatwaves, exacerbated by the El Niño climate phenomenon, pose significant public health threats. Projections suggest that El Niño-related conditions could lead to approximately 31,000 deaths in Nigeria over the next six months. The extreme heat increases the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and the exacerbation of underlying conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and asthma.

Health advocates, including Dr. Suleiman Akin, advise the public to prioritize regular hydration, wear lightweight clothing, and ensure proper ventilation in homes and workplaces. To reduce heat build-up, residents are encouraged to improve cross-ventilation and limit strenuous physical activities during peak sunlight hours.