Experts List Effects As Heat Forces Ilorin Residents To Sleep Outside 

Excessive heat is making life uncomfortable for the residents of Ilorin, Kwara State.

The excessive heat, coupled with the epileptic power supply, is forcing some residents of the Ilorin metropolis, especially those in the downtown area, to find open spaces in their houses to sleep at night.

LEADERSHIP observed that most residents of the capital city sleep in the open spaces in their houses till midnight to enjoy some fresh air before moving into their rooms.

However, those who sleep outside the rooms have to contend with mosquito bites unless they sleep under mosquito nets.

Three health experts—Oluwasogo Olalubi, a professor of Public Health at Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete; Dr Mariam Shiru, the president of the Association of Resident Doctors at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH); and Prof Sola Afolabi, chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kwara State’s chapter spoke on the danger that excessive heat poses to the health of the residents of Ilorin.

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They also spoke about measures necessary to mitigate the effects of excessive heat on people.

Olalubi, who said excessive heat has significant health and environmental impacts on residents, noted, “Residents are at risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat cramps. These conditions can be severe and, if not addressed promptly, may lead to death.

“High temperatures can worsen health conditions such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The heat stress associated with extreme temperatures can lead to dizziness, fainting, and confusion.”

Olalubi stated that addressing the effects of excessive heat in Ilorin requires a comprehensive approach, including environmental planning, aesthetic tree planting, public health initiatives, and community engagement to enhance resilience against heat-related challenges.

He added: “Tree planting: Increasing tree canopy cover can help reduce ambient temperatures in residential areas, providing shade and cooling effects. Research suggests that strategic tree planting is essential to mitigate the urban heat island effect in Ilorin.

“Public awareness: Educating residents about the risks of excessive heat and promoting measures such as staying hydrated (drink at least three bottles of 50cl water a day),

seeking shade, staying in a well-ventilated, aerated environment and avoiding strenuous activities during peak heat hours are vital. Health experts recommend these precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.”

Olalubi advised residents always to take a cold shower in the evening before bedtime.

The president of ARD—UITH and member of the West Africa College of Surgeons, Dr Mariam Shiru, said that excessive heat could have severe consequences on the health and well-being of residents in Ilorin, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

She listed some of the effects of excessive heat, including heatstroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and respiratory problems, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

She said that heat waves can also affect mental health, causing irritability, anxiety, depression, and insomnia, adding that exposure to excessive heat can worsen existing health conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and renal disease due to dehydration.

To mitigate the effects of excessive heat, Shiru recommended that residents stay indoors during the hottest hours of the day, usually between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., use fans, air conditioners, or other cooling devices, drink plenty of water and fluids, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.

Shiru also advised residents to always wear light, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing, preferably cotton or linen, during the heat period.

She emphasised the importance of checking on the elderly, children, and people with chronic diseases who might be more vulnerable to the heat.

She stressed the need for the stakeholders in the health sector to develop and implement heatwave action plans that include measures such as opening cooling centres, providing heatwave alerts, and conducting public education campaigns, as well as improving urban planning by creating green spaces, using heat-reducing materials, and designing buildings that allow for good airflow and shading, which is something His excellency( Kwara State governor) is currently working towards, i.e. The Green City.

She also asked the stakeholders to provide access to cooling for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and low-income households, through programmes such as air conditioner giveaways or subsidies.

“Public sensitisation in the news media on the effects of excessive heat and the importance of adequate hydration will also go a long way in reducing the harmful effects associated with excessive heat, “ Shiru,  an Associate Fellow at the National Postgraduate College of Nigeria, added.

The chairman of NMA in the state, Prof Sola Afolabi, said: “Excessive heat can have significant health implications, particularly in a city like Ilorin, where high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses.”

He advised residents to take personal responsibility by adopting preventive measures like hydration, avoiding direct sunlight, and seeking medical attention when experiencing heat-related symptoms.

Afolabi added, “ The Government and relevant authorities should implement policies such as tree planting for shade, improving urban planning to reduce heat retention, and ensuring access to clean drinking water. More public spaces with cooling facilities should also be provided.

“ By taking proactive steps, the risks associated with excessive heat can be significantly minimised, ensuring better health and overall wellbeing for the people of Ilorin.”