Nigeria’s Sweltering Heatwave: A Call for Urgent Action – Amos Alao

With the rising scorching heatwave in Nigeria, concerns over the country’s preparedness to combat rising temperatures are mounting.

Landscape architects, who have long championed the integration of green infrastructure into urban planning, are sounding the alarm over the dire consequences of neglecting these recommendations.

The President Society of Landscape Architects of Nigeria (SLAN), Amos Alao underscores the urgency of the situation: “We are witnessing the repercussions of years of insufficient green infrastructure investment. The time for action is now.”

Fitness enthusiasts, braving the early morning hours for their workouts, find themselves at heightened risk of heat-related illnesses exacerbated by the intense heat radiating from asphalt surfaces overnight.

Moreover, the prevalence of reptiles seeking relief from the heat underscores the need for proactive measures to protect public health and safety.

As temperatures soar, the importance of planting trees and preserving green spaces cannot be overstated.

These natural elements not only provide essential shade and cooling benefits but also contribute to biodiversity and ecosystem preservation.

However, the challenge extends beyond mere discomfort; climate change exacerbates these heat waves, amplifying their frequency and intensity.

Without swift and decisive action, Nigeria’s urban areas will continue to grapple with the adverse effects of extreme heat, placing further strain on infrastructure and public health systems.

Thermal discomfort in classrooms can negatively impact children’s cognitive learning abilities.

The constant need to wipe their sweaty faces and bodies leads to a lack of concentration. Students can suffer heatstroke.

Estate developers must be compelled to integrate green spaces into their projects, preserving existing vegetation and fostering biodiversity.

Failure to do so not only jeopardizes public health but also undermines the country’s resilience to climate change.

In the face of these challenges, landscape architects urge policymakers, developers, and communities to prioritise green infrastructure investments.

By working together, Nigeria can build a more sustainable and resilient future, one that safeguards public health and preserves the natural environment for generations to come.

As Amos Alao aptly puts it, “Preserving our natural ecosystems is not just a choice; it’s a necessity for our survival.”

This heatwave serves as a wake-up call, demanding urgent action to address the root causes of rising temperatures and ensure a cooler, greener future for all Nigerians.