Nigeria’s silent crisis: Air pollution’s devastating impact on public health

BY – Ineh Immanuella 

Air pollution is no longer seen solely as an environmental issue; rather, it is a public health crisis affecting millions of individuals across Nigeria.

As urban areas continue their rapid expansion, cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Kano are grappling with significantly deteriorating air quality, which leads to serious health consequences for their residents.

Sources and Health Implications of Nigeria’s Air Pollution

Nigeria’s rapid industrialization and burgeoning population have led to a substantial increase in air pollutants. Common sources of this pervasive pollution include vehicle emissions, particularly from old and poorly maintained vehicles; industrial activities, often with inadequate emission controls; the widespread burning of waste in open dumps; and the ubiquitous use of generators due to erratic electricity supply. These pollutants release harmful substances such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and various forms of particulate matter, all of which have been scientifically shown to seriously affect human health.

Residents in cities with high pollution levels, such as Lagos, experience a notable rise in respiratory conditions, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

For instance, a family living near the bustling Lagos-Ibadan Expressway reported frequent respiratory issues, especially during the harmattan season, when dust and vehicle emissions significantly worsen air quality.

The children in this family often suffer from persistent coughs and wheezing, necessitating frequent hospital visits.

The community of Kalakuta in Lagos is particularly notorious for high levels of air pollution due to dense industrial activities. Health surveys conducted in the area have indicated a higher rate of heart diseases among its residents compared to less polluted regions. In one distressing case, an elderly man, affected by excessive exposure to air pollution, suffered a heart attack, which his doctors directly attributed to his long-term inhalation of harmful air pollutants.

Vulnerable Populations and Emerging Concerns

Groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions are particularly at risk.

In Port Harcourt, a local clinic recorded a distressing increase in hospital admissions for lung infections among children following a fire incident at a waste disposal site that released vast quantities of toxic fumes into the air. These children developed severe respiratory infections, starkly highlighting the devastating impact of poor air quality on the youngest and most vulnerable members of society.

Beyond physical ailments, new research is revealing that air pollution can also profoundly affect mental health.

A study conducted in urban areas of Nigeria found concerning correlations between high pollution levels and increased rates of anxiety and depression.

Residents reported pervasive feelings of stress and unease, attributing their mental health challenges to their living conditions amid constant pollution and inherent health risks.

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Ongoing Efforts and Future Outlook

Despite the grim statistics, there are ongoing efforts to combat air pollution and mitigate its health effects. Various non-governmental organizations have initiated awareness campaigns, educating communities about the dangers and impacts of air pollution and practical steps individuals can take to reduce their exposure. For example, initiatives promoting the use of cleaner energy sources and encouraging extensive tree planting have been introduced in several urban neighborhoods.

The Nigerian government is also beginning to address air quality issues at a policy level. In 2020, the Federal Ministry of Environment launched the National Air Quality Monitoring Program, aimed at establishing a foundational framework for air quality management across the country.

However, the long-term effectiveness of such programs profoundly depends on continuous funding, robust enforcement of regulations, and sustained public participation.

The pervasive effect of air pollution on the health of citizens in Nigeria is alarming, impacting individuals across all aspects of their daily lives. Real-life stories from urban centers vividly illustrate the urgent need for comprehensive and sustained strategies to reduce air pollution and protect public health. This critical endeavor can only be possible through collaborative efforts between the government, affected communities, and individuals committed to fostering a healthier environment for all.